Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others. Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant. Philippians 2:4-7
God’s purpose in sending his Son was to create a people who would become like him, that we should be “conformed to the image of his Son” (Rom. 8:29).
He was rich, but he became poor, so that others might inherit the world. He became homeless, so that others may have an everlasting home. He became hungry, so that others might have the bread of life.
He was bound, so that others would be set free. He was stripped of his clothing, so that others would be clothed in his righteousness. He suffered injustice, so that others may be justified before God.
When you ask the Holy Spirit to restore your soul, you are asking that he will make you more like Jesus. And the distinguishing mark of Christ’s presence in your life will be that you care about others more than you care about yourself.
Thank God for all the ways we see reflections of Jesus among us: Those who foster children in need. Those who visit prisons. Those who care for the grieving. Those who have a passion for the persecuted. Those who serve the homeless. Those who care for aging parents, neighbors, or friends. Those who have a passion for needs in other parts of the world.
These are things that Jesus would do. They reflect the kind of Savior he is. And they show that we belong to him.
What is one way you could better reflect the image of Christ?
