Self Image

Let us make humankind in our image. . . . . —Genesis 1:26

This is the true joy in life: The being used for a purpose recognized by yourself as a mighty one. The being a force of nature, instead of a feverish, selfish little clod of ailments and grievances complaining that the world will not devote itself to making you happy. —George Bernard Shaw

The scripture passage from Genesis has been the subject of treatises and books for centuries. They all fell under the Latin phrase imago Dei—image of God. Each of these works struggled with what it meant to be made in the image of God. After reading several books and articles over the years I concluded, at least for me, that it meant having the incredible, godlike ability of free choice.

I think Shaw is referring to self-image. Self-image is not the same as self-esteem. Self-image is how you see yourself rather than how you feel about yourself. Self-image is what you think you look like; what kind of person you think you are; how much you like yourself or think others like you; etc. all of which can and does influence self-esteem. Self-image is enhanced by the purposes we choose in life. And, as Shaw states, it is important that we recognize our purpose as a mighty one.

The shema is such a purpose—Hear O Israel: The Lord our God is one God. You shall love the lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your might—Jesus lists the second and your neighbor as yourself reminding us that love for God is integral not only to having a healthy self-image, but a good image of others. Without love for self we become a selfish little clod of ailments and grievances complaining that the world [has not] made [us] happy.

Some things I can do to build a good self-image are deliberately and quietly move out of the space where people are incessant with their grievances and complaining. (Now granted there are times as a pastor when I want to listen to another’s grievances and complaints. Partly because it may lead to some constructive action on both our parts, and partly because they may simply need to get it off of their chest to feel better about life.) I can change negative thoughts to positive ones. I can list things I like about myself—appearance, personality and skills. I can do this by beginning my day in the right way.

One of the best reasons for beginning a day with a time of devotion and prayer is what it does for self-image. First, I can affirm God as the very foundation of life for me. Second, it reminds me that that I am loved by God. Third, it reminds me that I do not have to bear nor face the world’s ills by myself. Finally, it helps me image my neighbor in a better light. In other words, it reminds me that I am made in God’s image and that is an enormous help when seeking a good self-image and a better image of others.

Prayer
God of all creation, I rejoice in this new day because I know that you love me, and the world that you created. May I, in remembering your love for me begin this day with a better image of whom I am so that I may strengthen the image of others around me. Amen.

Mac Hamon
Senior Pastor
Castleton United Methodist Church
Indianapolis, Indiana