The Imitation Game is based upon Alan Turing’s biography. During World War II, this English mathematical genius tries to crack the German Enigma code featured in the 2014 film. One of Jesus’ former disciples refers to a choice, not a game. John calls first century Christians to imitate good rather than imitate evil acts. The choices you make in life reflect who you are and what’s deep inside of you.
Beloved, do not imitate evil, but imitate good. He who does good is of God; he who does evil has not seen (discerned or experienced) God [has enjoyed no vision of Him and does not know Him at all], 3 John 1:11.
As a child, you tend to imitate the actions, behaviors and vocabulary of the people that you admire. I remember saying “shit” really loud once, not knowing any better. Unless you’re parents of a newborn baby, few adults realize that this imitation game is ongoing. Yet, it’s not just words that little children hear. Bad habits like picking your nose and unhealthy food addictions are also passed on.
Therefore be imitators of God [copy Him and follow His example], as well-beloved children [imitate their father]. 2 And walk in love, [esteeming and delighting in one another] as Christ loved us and gave Himself up for us, a [a]slain offering and sacrifice to God [for you, so that it became] a sweet fragrance, Ephesians 5:1-2.
Rather than elevating human beings to hero status on earth, the apostle Paul points first century Christians toward who you should imitate. Besides the obvious of imitating good, fix your eyes upon God’s Son. Jesus set the tone early, living out love as a caring healer. When his disciples got carried away or fell off the rails, Jesus used parables to bring God back into focus. Life isn’t a game; it’s a series of choices that determine your eternal destiny, Matthew 7:13-14. As Moses suggested, choose wisely.
by Jay Mankus
ExpressYourself4Him 