When I was a toddler, I used to slip on my dad’s work boots and shuffle around the house pretending to be him. I would try to talk and act like him while stumbling all over the place in boots the size of my entire leg. Most young kids want to be like their parents. They watch them closely and try to mimic their actions the best they can. This is ultimately how we learn to talk, tie our shoes, and cheer for the same football team as our dads.
Jesus mimicked His father as well. He explained, “The Son can do nothing by himself; he can do only what he sees his Father doing, because whatever the Father does the Son also does” (John 5:19). Jesus did the same stuff that God the Father did- He helped the helpless, showed hope to the hopeless, healed the sick, and invited people into an adventure much bigger than themselves.
Jesus mirrored the Father, and we are called to mirror Jesus (Ephesians 5:1-2). As you grow closer to Jesus, you will start to reflect Him. You will develop a deep desire to help others. Your heart will break for the same things that break His. You will grow more merciful, loving, friendly, and patient. Just like a toddler learning to mimic their parents, it’ll start by changing what you do. Then, it will end by changing who you are.
Your life should reflect your relationship with Christ.
Love like He loves.
Forgive like He forgives.
Pray like He prayed.
Sacrifice like He sacrificed.
Through the Spirit, God has empowered you to live like the Son.