Whose Image Are We Reflecting?
The Evolution of Self-Perception Through Mirrors
Our eyes naturally look outward, so we aren’t able to see our face until we look in a mirror.
The Primitive Reflections
People in ancient times saw their reflection through pools of water and eventually through polished metals such as bronze and copper. But these primitive mirrors were far from the quality of the mirror in our bathroom or the camera on our smartphone.
The Shift in Self-Perception
The invention of the mirror caused a shift in how people viewed themselves. People used to identify themselves in light of their community and their relationship with God (Mortimer, Sorrel). However, as mirrors increased in quality and availability to all classes of society, people started to become more individualistic in their thinking.
The Profound Nature of Our Vision
I think the fact that we can’t naturally look at ourselves fully is profound. Our vision causes us to look outward at the world around us, to look at the needs of others.
True Vision: Recognizing and Responding
True vision is not only recognizing the needs of others but responding to those needs. Jesus looked outside Himself and saw the needs of the people around Him. But He didn’t stop with simple observation.
Jesus’ Example of Selfless Love
He partnered with the Father in responding to those needs, no matter how inconvenient or uncomfortable. He desired to do the will of the Father more than He desired to please Himself. During His public ministry, He often spoke to large crowds, but He didn’t hesitate to respond to the Father’s leading to stop and love just one person, even when no one was watching or praising Him for it.
Reflecting Christ Through Our Vision
Let His eyes be the mirror through which we see both ourselves and other people. I think if we are going to be Christ’s reflection to the world, we need to get our eyes off ourselves and set our focus on His desires.
Sources:
Mortimer, Ian. (2016). Millennium: From Religion to Revolution: How Civilization Has Changed Over a Thousand Years (1st ed.). Pegasus Books.
Sorrel, Charlie. “How The Invention Of The Mirror Changed Everything.” Fast Company, Fast Company, 15 Nov. 2016, www.fastcompany.com/3065643/how-the-invention-of-the-mirror-changed-everything.