In the beginning God created man and woman to carry His own likeness in the world. That uniqueness among creation and profound reflection still exists in us today. As we consider our purpose - to go into all the world to reach the lost - we often focus on what separates us from them: different beliefs, different lifestyles, or different values. However, the most profound bridge we have to our neighbors is the one thing we all share, humans are made in His image.
Scripture reminds us of the far-reaching consequence of this truth in James 3:9, noting the tragedy of using our tongues to praise God while simultaneously devaluing people who have been made in His likeness. This isn’t merely a rule for our speech; it is a fundamental truth that we must apply anytime as we look into the eyes of any other human being.
The lost are simply that, lost, in danger, dying. When we look at the unbelieving world, we are not looking at a collection of "lost causes" or "enemies." We are looking at damaged masterpieces. Sin has certainly marred the image of God in humanity, but it has never erased it. The world suffers from a blinding identity crisis, not knowing what they are or why they are here. They do not see the dignity of being a bearer of God’s image.
Do not fall for the same lie. Jesus loves the gangster, Jesus died for the prostitute, Jesus is seeking every sinner to save because He sees their worth. Every person has a desire for justice, beauty and love instilled into them at creation. Sin and the lies of Satan have twisted how we seek to fulfill those desires. Our job, as those conformed to the image of Christ, is to see past the lies, the hurts, the sin and see the worth of another made in God’s image – just as we are.