TAKING ON THE LIKENESS

“Climate affects the form, color, and growth patterns of plants and flowers. In the jungle we often see insects that have taken on the form and color of the grass and green leaves on which they feed. In the snow of the North, the polar bear’s fur has the same snowy whiteness. The Bengal tiger wears stripes on its skin like the reeds where it lives. Our spiritual environment similarly affects us. If we remain in communion with God, our habits and dispositions… even our appearance… is all changed. To pray means to be on speaking terms with God, to be in communion with him and to be transformed into his likeness. We begin to take on a glorious and incorruptible spiritual nature,” wrote Sundar Singh (1889-1929), an Indian sadhu, or wandering holy man.

Paul, an apostle, reminds us similarly in the negative, “Do not be deceived: Evil company corrupts good habits.” We take on the image of the environment we choose. We become like whom we hang out with.

“And just as you want men to treat you, treat them in the same way.” Jesus