The other Sunday I was looking across the congregation of the people I worship with each week. A number of striking family likenesses stood out. I noticed a dad and daughter who have the same nose, a mother and daughter with the same hair, and a dad and son who share the same mannerisms.
The first time I realised I look like my mum was when I was about 20. It was the one time I had my hair permed. I looked in the mirror … and saw Mum looking back at me! No offence to my mother, but when you’re 20 and catch a glimpse of yourself as someone 28 years older, it can be a scary moment.
I’m older now than my mother was then, but I’m starting to see the attractiveness of our family likeness. In particular, I want to pray like Mum prays—regularly and faithfully for lots of people. In this, she’s like her parents. Prayer was a central focus of their lives too.
When I survey the people at my church, I see another family likeness. I see people who look like Jesus. Not perfect. Not people who never fail, but people whose hearts are directed to living life like Jesus. People who are kind and loving, generous and faithful, joyful and passionate.
If you’re tired with the character of your life, it’s not too late to find a new role model in Jesus. Come along to The Salvation Army and find a family that will help you pursue a new and fulfilling way of life.
Christina Tyson
Editor
John 13:35 New International Version
By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.
Hoani 13:35
Mā konei ka mātau ai te katoa, he ākonga koutou nāku, me ka aroha koutou tētahi ki tētahi.