We are all familiar with the phrase, “We all have a twin in the world somewhere.” My friend and brother in Christ, Mason, has the record for “look a likes” I think. He will occasionally post a picture of someone he has met that looks like him. It is amazing to see how many of us have someone we resemble.
While it is fun to think of or meet someone who we may resemble or vice versa in relation to appearance or mannerisms, let us remember when it comes to our spiritual walk, we are to be distinct in our pattern of living and the way we worship and live out our faith. Romans 12:2 says: And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.
• We are called to live differently than the world.
• We are challenged to behave differently than the world.
• We are encouraged to have different priorities than the world.
• Conforming to Christ sharpens our view of eternity.
When we live differently, we aren’t living with our head in the sand, but living with our eyes on Heaven! The sacrifice of Christ allows us to be compassionate, not calloused to the cause of Christ. We know the world and those around us who prefer to resemble faithfulness may look like they are following Christ, but they are difficult to differentiate from the world. Romans 12:2 reminds us to be transformed, not go undercover or seek to blend in.
May we be distinct not out of arrogance, but because of our Sacrificial Savior. Looking like those around us in the world and in religion is tempting, but we know where temptation leads (James 1:14-15).
Imitating Christ means being buried in baptism, Romans 6, and living faithfully, Revelation 2:10. May we appreciate those who may resemble, but we may seek and love the One we should imitate. Looking like Him will not be seen in our appearance, but in our actions!
