Meditation on God’s Word: “In the image and likeness of God.” (Spiritual Message. October 3, 2021)

Dear Parishioners and Friends, whether we like it or not (most of us not), a mirror does not lie. It always shows us exactly as we are, flaws and all. A mirror merely reflects our real and true self. The Book of Genesis tell us that we have been made “in the image and likeness of God.” In like manner, those who profess to be Orthodox Christians are said to be “mirror images” of our Lord. In other words, those around us should be able to look at us and see the reflection of Christ. All of our thoughts, words, deeds and feelings should be consistent with His actions. To put it simply, Christ must be constantly visible in us.

It is important to note that this does not happen without effort on our part. To reach the point where we can confidently say that we are “Christ’s reflection “requires a great deal of attention. Only through prayer, fasting, reading the Scriptures and Living the Gospel can this be accomplished, we cannot be Christ -like if He does not dwell in our heart!

We should allow God to mold and shape us into what He wants us to be. We are the masterpiece of His creation – “diamonds in the rough” – waiting to be refined and polished by our Creator.

As the beginning of the new Ecclesiastical Church Year started recently on Tuesday, September 14^th we should all strive to become Orthodox Christians who will truly reflect, with glory, the image of God that lies deep within all of us.

God Bless You All and I hope to

see you in church on Sunday.

Fr. Roman