imagio

Imagio Dei.  If you have been around Christianity for any amount of time, then you should be familiar with this Greek phrase.  Translated it reads 'Image of God' and is a foundational stone in Christian Theology.  We understand this phrase to mean that we humans are created in the Imagio Dei ~ the Image of God.  As such, our value is inherent.  Simply because we exist (though there is no such thing as 'simple existence') we are declared valued, of worth, in His image . . . very good.

This truth is placed in stark contrast to our current ideologies to which we subscribe or the goals for which we strive.  In both ideology and practice we are reminded of the subtle distortion of this truth which states, 'we are valued in accordance with function.'  Or, 'we are valued in accordance with our utility or performance.'  Or 'we are valued in accordance with our possession.'  Each is a subtle distortion of truth.  Yes, function, utility and possession have value.  The question we must ask is 'how much and to what end?'

Perhaps this is the right focus for this year's Lenten season.  Before you throw yourself into just 'giving something up' for Lent, consider first what you are pursuing.  Consider what you love.  Once you identify these things do you recognize their formative power in your life?  In other words, in what ways (or toward what ends) have they shaped you?  Have these loves and pursuits formed you toward Christ and His Kingdom?  Or have they shaped you away from Christ and His Kingdom?  Perhaps they have shaped you into a lover of self, possessions, pride, position, etc.?!

Thomas Merton, a 20th century Trappist Monk, has written, "Your life is shaped by what you live for.  You are made in the image of what you desire."  This would make us "Imagio Eros" ~ the Image of Desire.  His words ring true in my ears.  In fact, they fit well with some of Christ's most stirring words.  He never pulled any punches when it came to the order of our loves.  He was intent on communicating the truth that we must love God first, 'with all our heart, soul, mind and strength.'  Christ sought to shape our desire toward Him and His Kingdom.  Then and only then do we fully reflect Him and fully live into the hope we have in the "Imagio Dei".

Perhaps Lent might become an assessment of our desire.  When a false desire is identified, replace it with a true desire.  The desire that is truest of all of us ~ To Love God First.

what is the shape of your desire?

Biz

“Thou hast made us for Thyself, and our hearts are restless until they rest in Thee.”

- St. Augustine