IMAGO Dei: Restoring the dignity of every human being

Life is the greatest gift that is given to us, but in the current world it is treated as an option. Things that are against life today has been normalized such as contraception, euthanasia, suicide, and other things. Where is the respect? The respect that every person deserves to have? Every human being is “Imago Dei”, it means that every human being is created in the image and likeness of God. Therefore, each and everyone carries God with them regardless of their race, color, status, wealth, and even religion. No one has the right to take such precious “things” because no one has the power to make the decisions except the Almighty God.

The celebration of the Pro-Life month reminds us that no one is less worthy than the other. Life should be promoted, valued, and cherished. A person only lives once, and they deserve to live that life. Morally speaking, it is not right to prevent life from existing. Life starts from conception, and using contraception is an evil and unfair act to do. It is not the child’s fault that their parents can’t raise them well, and if one person would want to do and commit something that would eventually lead to the creation of life, that person is obliged to “take responsibility” for the said action. Using contraception as well as abortion is unfair for the child, simply because their parents are taking their right to live in this world. In which, the child can’t even experience the beauty of this world. They deserve the love that their parents are expected to provide.

This month’s celebration is the voice of God that is speaking to us. Jesus himself was incarnated into this world, suffered, and died on the cross because of his love for humanity yet man did not care and disregarded this great love that he has given. His passion was neglected by the constant disrespect of the people whom he suffered for and died. So, he reminded us to once more restore the neglected dignity of humanity. Life is not a choice; it is grace by God himself.

Whoever you are, always remember that you are precious in God’s eyes. Status does not tell who a person is and their worth. So, love yourself and love others just as God loves us. Because God is love himself and you are created in his image. Do not be deceived by the temptation of this world. Do not be carried away by the strange teaching against life, for it is the world of darkness that wants the fall of humanity.

Therefore, let us restore the dignity of every human being. Everyone is “Imago Dei”, and we are all equal in God’s eyes, white or black, man or woman, rich or poor, you are an advocate of justice and dignity. We are called to love one another as Christ loved us. Let us help one another in protecting every person that Jesus sacrificed his life for. Lastly, if you are called to support the month that calls for the dignity of every human being and promotes equality among all branches of society. (Mervin John V. Tagalog | SLCD Immersionist)