So God created humankind in his image,
in the image of God he created them;
male and female he created them.
Genesis 1:27

This passage from Genesis comes at the conclusion of the first creation story. It does not contain any of the details of how people were created like the second creation story does. What is stated here, quite simply, is that God created humankind and did so in God's very image.

That is a powerful faith statement to me. The very God who created the entire universe in all its splendor, created me. And created me in God's own image. I am not sure I grasp what that means in its entirety, but I am pretty sure that, at the very least, it means I am special and important and worthy.

It also means that you are special and important and worthy -- not because of anything you have done, but because you are created in God's image as well. And so is every other person we encounter -- whether we like them or not!

And that's the challenging part -- realizing that every person is created in God's image. It gives me pause when I am tempted to judge another as less than me. It gives me pause when I am tempted to label another as less important, less special, less worthy of God's love than I am. Looking into the eyes of another and seeing the image of God reflected back to me helps me in my daily encounters.

As you go about your week, reflect on the fact that you are created in God's image and so are those you will meet. What does that mean for the way we greet one another? for the way we talk to and about one another? for the people we pray for and are concerned for? for the words we use in anger or in love?

Thank you God for creating us in your image. Help us to see you in everyone we encounter -- those in our families, in our workplaces, in our schools and those we don't know but who we see in news stories, at the bus stop, driving beside us on the road. Bless us this week with your love and grace. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Contributed by Tracie B.
Sunday September 17, 2006
Liturgical Year B Week 43