What did you think about when you woke up this morning? You probably thought about your schedule, what classes or meetings you had to go to, about what things you needed to get done. I'm guessing you also walked to the bathroom, yawned, and then looked in the mirror to realize that you "were a mess." You probably fixed your hair, brushed your teeth, and shaved or put makeup on. I'm also guessing you took a look at the clothes you were wearing, and tried to decide whether they looked good or not... after all, you want to look your best, right?

Perhaps looking just right is most important for those in the entertainment business. Musicians spend hours in makeup to hide blemishes, birthmarks, and freckles... Actors and actresses spend hours in makeup and wardrobe, having their hair done, makeup put on, and having their costume adjusted... hours to look just right for the role they're playing.

One actor said that one of the greatest challenges he faced, was remembering who he was after playing a role. He said that after all the makeup, all the acting tips, and having to adjust his personality, he had to take a few days just to remember who he really was... to remember his own image.

Today we deal with all kinds of different images. The image of being a sports great, the image of being a flawless model, or a great actor. The image of being beautiful, or charming, elegant, or even perfect. And just like actors, sometimes we lose track of what our real image is while we are trying to play all of these different roles.

So what is our real, true image as Christians? The Bible tells us that we were created in the image of God (Genesis 1:27), an image that reflects purity, love, kindness, patience, gentleness, grace, humbleness, and mercy (1 Corinthians 13:4-8). And unlike physical beauty which fades away, this image lasts forever. Unlike charm, this image is one that comes from our heart, an image that is true.

Today, what image will people see when they look at you? Will they see an image of physical beauty, an image of fame, and image of charm or deceit... or will they see the image of God, the image of Christ living in you? Which image will you be focusing on (Exodus 20:3)?