This weekend we helped children recognize that they are made in the image of God.

Being made in God’s image is frequently taken to mean “looks like.” God’s image is much more complicated than that. When we talk about the image of God, first we have to get beyond the idea of physical characteristics. Obviously as the children look around themselves, they see people who are a variety of sizes, shapes, and colors. So which group, the children will ask, represents the image of God? We will answer, “They all do!” God has given people the ability to choose, not merely act on instinct or training. Being made in God’s image means that humans are a reflection of the spiritual, emotional, and intellectual characteristics that are attributed to God.

This weekend we helped the children make the biblical connection that we are made in the image of God. We engaged in activities that showed that each one of them is special and unique. Have you thought lately about your own uniqueness and how special you are to God? There’s no one else in the universe like you. What you will offer your children, your gifts and talents, faith, personality, manner of interaction with them is unlike any other parent. Take a few moments and thank God for you. Don’t think about your failures or shortcomings we all have them. Rather, concentrate on what wonderful gifts you bring to the relationship with your children. Let your gifts be an inspiration to your kids.

This week as you interact with your children help them see how special they are, expand their thoughts to the diversity of the world. Take time to thank God for all the different abilities, cultures, ages, and qualities of people throughout the world. Emphasize to them that all people everywhere are created in the image of God.

“God saw everything that he had made, and indeed, it was very good”. Genesis 1:31