Imitators

I think its funny at times to watch my kids do the things that they do. Some things surprise me until I really look closely and I see much of myself in them! They really do imitate ME! You would think that would make me happy but honestly there are some things that I have done that I pray they never imitate! It's hard to discipline a child when they are doing something that reminds you of YOU!
As believers our goal is to imitate Christ. The apostle Paul always appreciated seeing people that he ministered to do the things that Jesus did. In fact in 1 Thessalonians he says, "you became imitators of us and of the Lord, for you welcomed the message in the midst of severe suffering with the joy given by the Holy Spirit."
You may be going through a touch patch right now. There may be some pain, some grief, even some guilt. There is JOY available through the Holy Spirit if you hold on and reach out to the Lord. Sever suffering will often produce incredible blessing. Just keep trusting the Lord-imitate Him and one day soon, that mourning will turn to dancing!