Fully Human, Fully Alive

Several youngsters were sitting together in a crowded theatre, waiting for the film to begin. One young man decided to go to the refreshment counter. He bought some popcorn, but as he came back down the aisle the house lights went out and the movie began. He continued down the darkened aisle scanning the audience, looking for his seat. Back and forth he paced several times without success. Finally, in total frustration, he stopped and asked in a loud voice, “Does anybody recognize me?”

In the opening chapter of our Bible, the sacred author tells us that we are made in the image of God. Does anybody recognize us? More importantly, do we recognize ourselves in this way? Do you recognize yourself as being made in the image of God? In the creation story, the Biblical writer emphasizes this religious truth by repeating himself. Three times he tells us that we are created in the “Image of God.” This is one of the most…