“You look so much like your dad!” I’ve heard these words my whole life. Yep, I’ve definitely got his eyes and facial features. 

But people who know the two of us know I take after him in more ways than just our looks. Our personalities are a lot alike, too. For example, we both are collectors of important things. Some may say “pack rat”, but the proper term is “treasure keeper.” 

It’s always fun to look at the traits we have passed down to our kids. Our girls definitely get their sense of humor from their dad. And when our son throws his golf club after a bad shot…well, we may have an idea where he gets that tendency!  

We all inherit traits from our earthly fathers, some good, some not so good. But what about our heavenly Father? Do we take after Him?

Ephesians 5:1 says, “Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children.” If we are children of God, we should reflect His character. And thankfully He came to earth in human form to show us the perfect example of how to live. 

Jesus showed care and concern for the outcasts of society: the prostitutes, the poor, the lepers, and even the wealthy dishonest tax collectors. He had compassion for those who were rejected and despised. Do I show love to those who are overlooked or unaccepted?

To His friends, Jesus showed humility and patience. He even served them by washing their dirty feet. Am I willing to sacrifice and serve my friends and neighbors?

He spent time alone in prayer with His Father, looking to Him for wisdom and strength. Do I spend time in prayer with God?

He took on suffering in a patient, calm, and accepting manner. He knew that God’s for His life was going to be hard, yet He humbly submitted to it, trusting in His Father’s plan. Do I trust God with the difficult things in my life?

There is so much to be learned from the life of Jesus. The more time we spend reading the gospels, the more we can know Christ and learn how to be an “imitator of God.” Because as Christians, we are bearing the name of Christ. We should not take that lightly.

One of our family’s favorite song lyrics comes from the Avett Brothers’ song “Murder in the City.”

“Always remember there was nothing worth sharing like the love that let us share our name.”

As Christians, how blessed we are to share in the love of Christ, and also share His name. Hopefully there is a family resemblance! 

 “If you keep my commandments, you will abide in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commandments and abide in His love.” John 15:10