Daily reflection _ we are the children of God

WE ARE THE CHILDREN OF GOD
Genesis tells us that human beings are created in God's image and likeness, and St. John tells us that God appears to us in our image.
Deacon John Ruscheinsky
In the days of Christmas we have time during which we can reflect on its meaning. But if we've been around for a decade or two, we know that we are never finished with reflecting on this - or with acting on it. How do we remember the Lord is always with us when confronted with life's difficulties? How do we consistently and continually see God in persons when they are suffering, difficult, and needy? The first of the commandments - the call to love is a life long task. The end of another year urges us to evaluate our success and failures in this matter for the months just past. The immensity of the task tells us that we will always need our heavenly Father's grace to forgive our failures and strengthen us in our resolve, "from the fullness we have all received." In today's first reading, it confirms that with the anointing from the Holy One, we also have the knowledge we need.
I read the following in one the commentaries today. One of the finest Christmas sermons is that given by Pope St. Leo the Great, beginning, "Christian, recognize your dignity." St. John surely carries this idea to the next level. "World, recognize your dignity." God wants to be part of it all. Genesis tells us that human beings are created in God's image and likeness, and St. John tells us that God appears to us in our image.
Points to Pray and Ponder: Today we need to be reminded of our dignity, because often we are tempted to live far below what we are called to be. God invites each of us to excel as a person for we are His children. Christmas, put simply, teaches us that the human and the divine go well together. It's a good fit!
How do we remember the Lord is always with us when confronted with life's difficulties?