That's Me!

 Imitate me, just as I also imitate Christ. – 1 Corinthians 11:1

One of Luca’s frequent sayings is “That’s me!” At just two years old, he is quick to see something in others worth emulating. Whether it’s the main character of one of his favorite PBS shows or the lead singer in a music video, he wants to take on their persona. Sometimes he assigns a role to me too. Usually I just play along. 

When Advent arrived, I pulled out my What God Wants for Christmas play & learn activity set. I used its boxes containing the characters of the Nativity to tell the Christmas story to Luca – over and over again. Soon he recognized the characters and began opening the boxes himself, identifying each one as he went. One day when he pulled out Baby Jesus, he said, “That’s me!” In a split-second, something felt wrong, sacrilegious even. I couldn’t let him think he’s God. I blurted out, “No, you’re not Baby Jesus!” 

Mulling it over later, I thought who better to emulate than Jesus. In fact, Scripture admonishes us to imitate Christ. The apostle Paul addressed this several times in the epistles: 

·         “Imitate me, just as I also imitate Christ” (1 Corinthians 11:1 NKJV). 

·         "Therefore be imitators of God as dear children. And walk in love, as Christ also has loved us and given Himself for us" (Ephesians 5:1-2 NKJV). 

·         "Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus" (Philippians 2:5 ESV). 

·         "Brothers, join in imitating me, and keep your eyes on those who walk according to the example you have in us" (Philippians 3:17 ESV). 

So what does it look like to imitate Christ? By following His example. Living a life of love—preferring others, giving sacrificially, and extending mercy. 

Identity exploration is a normal and healthy part of child development. Imitating Christ is an act of obedience and part of our spiritual development. Let us live a life worthy of the gospel, one that points others to Jesus. 

Dear Father, thank You for giving Jesus, who gave Himself for me. May I walk in love, as He loved, and may others see Him in me. Amen.