Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children. Ephesians 5:1

At first glance, it’s an impossible task: imitating God. Who could even think about doing it and admitting that they are, in fact, imitating God? Some would give up because surely they aren’t up to the task.

Ah, but that’s where we’d be wrong.

The rest of the verse helps us out: “and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us, and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.” How are we to imitate God? Through love.

But before you get too carried away by thinking it’s a cinch, let’s look at the verse a little closer: “and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.” Loving is one thing. Obviously some people are easier to love than others. Giving yourself up for that person, well, that’s a different animal altogether, isn’t it? Even the best of people are not all they’re cracked up to be.

And that includes me and you.

So, let me narrow it down to this: is there someone right now that you’re loving in such a way that it’s “sacrificial” love? If so, be encouraged because you’re imitating God.