I believe God is an infinitely powerful but equally gracious Person who values nothing higher than the freedom of all His created beings throughout the universe.

I believe God is just like Jesus Christ who said, "if you have seen Me, you have seen the Father." (John 14:9)

This is very reassuring to me as I've never been afraid of Jesus but rather have admired Him. He always seemed to know what people were thinking and knew how to answer them wisely and usually without putting them down.

He was kind and considerate—especially of those who were unfortunate or the ones we might have considered great sinners.

Jesus (God) was a great Healer—eyes, hands, legs, skin, blood diseases—even death was cured—no missing teeth replaced—but talked about "an eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth"—better yet, "love your enemies". (Matthew 5:38,43,44)

Jesus (God) was an expert Carpenter—knew how to work with his hands—He would have been a great dentist.

Jesus (God) was a superb fisherman. He even knew how to cook them. He will teach, us how to catch men, but not how to cook them.

Jesus (God) was a good Shepherd—even concerned with lost sheep; He knew about farming—good and bad seed, different types of ground, rain, sunshine and harvest.

Jesus (God) was the greatest teacher ever—a good story teller—great crowds of common people and even children enjoyed listening to Him.

Jesus (God) has infinite power—to heal, calm storms, cast out devils, raise the dead but He always used His power for (their good—not for scaring or threatening people—except when they needed it!

I've always wanted to go to heaven because it sounds like a beautiful place with lots of good food, not much work, only a little gardening (which I like anyway), friendly animals and people, where rockhounding, gold panning and travel opportunities are "out of this world." It was never so I could see God face-to-face. But now as I see Him to be like Jesus, I think it would be real neat to live with Him for eternity. It will be very enjoyable and I won't be afraid.

By beholding we become changed into the same image—so I think it's important what image we want to be changed into, and therefore, what kind of God we behold.

©1986 Dr. Larry Day