Love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. . . . Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace. . . .

— 1 Peter 4:8-10

In the beginning, God created human beings in his image (Genesis 1:27). This foundational truth shapes how we view all of humanity. Unlike other creation stories, where only kings or rulers bear the divine image, the Bible teaches that every person carries God’s likeness.

This truth underpins the entire biblical social ethic: Do we truly recognize the image of God in all people, regardless of their status, background, or differences?

We need to see people correctly, as many moral philosophers and ethicists have recognized. In other words, if we fail to see someone as made in God's image, we reduce them to something lesser, even less than human. And if we dehumanize people, that can easily lead to mistreatment, marginalization, inequality, and injustice.

In contrast, when we learn to view all people—our neighbors, strangers, and even our enemies—with love and justice, we begin to recognize their inherent worth and dignity. (See Matthew 5:43-48.)

As believers in God, we need to see people as God does. May God’s Spirit work in us to see correctly all the people we are in community with, wherever we are.

Loving God, open our hearts to recognize the dignity and worth in each person. May we treat everyone with love, justice, and the honor they deserve. Amen.