DAY 22: Love

We've All Got Something In Common

Micah 6:[1-5] 6-8  and Proverbs 14:31

Those who oppress the poor insult their Maker…


Genesis 1:26 reminds us that we were all made in the image of God. All people carry the image of God with them as they walk through life. The teacher at school who bores you to tears was made in the image of God. Your parents and siblings were made in the image of God. Your classmates, even the ones you don't like, were made in the image of God. The 42 million people around the world who have been infected with HIV/AIDS were made in the image of God. The 14 million children who have been orphaned by HIV/AIDS were made in the image of God.

You were made in the image of God.

Because of this image of God that all people have, God takes it seriously when anyone is hurting. When we ignore the needs of someone or, worse, actively increase their suffering and pain, then we ignore the desire and will of God, the creator of all people. Jesus said that when we provide caringly for the needs of "one of the least of these," we are showing love and care toward God. When we refuse to care for the needs of others, then we are refusing to show care, love, and respect toward God. Another way to say it is found in the Old Testament book of Proverbs: "Those who oppress the poor insult their Maker..."


Does it change the way you look at other people in your life to know that they are made in the image of God, just like you?


Prayer:
Creator God, inspire me to see your image in all people as I try to act with mercy and justice each day. Amen


Action step:
Contribute 10% of your allowance or money from your job this week to the ELCA World Hunger. This fund helps provide hunger and HIV/AIDS relief throughout Africa.

contributed by Pastor Seth Moland-Kovash