How do we know what Jesus looks like?
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How do we know what Jesus looks like? We can scour historical texts, archaeological findings, and artistic representations, and perhaps get a general idea of a first-century Jewish man. But the truth is, none of those truly capture the essence of Jesus. They can only offer a glimpse of his physical form, while the real image of Christ is etched not on canvas or in stone, but in the depths of our hearts.
The question of Jesus' appearance isn't about physical accuracy; it's about encountering the living Christ. It's about seeing him through the eyes of faith.
Think about it: Have you ever met someone new, and after spending time with them, their physical features seem to fade into the background? You're no longer focused on the shape of their nose or the color of their eyes. Instead, you see their kindness, their compassion, their strength of character. You see them.
It's the same with Jesus. While the Bible gives us some clues, the most powerful image of Christ comes not from a description but from an encounter. It comes from experiencing his love, his forgiveness, his transformative power.
John 1:14: "And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth." This verse emphasizes the Incarnation – God becoming human in Jesus. The focus isn't on physical appearance, but on the glory of God revealed through Jesus. "Glory" here points to the divine nature and character of God, made visible in human form. We see this glory not with our physical eyes, but with the eyes of faith, recognizing Jesus as the Son of God.
2 Corinthians 4:6: "For God, who said, “Let light shine out of darkness,” has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ." This passage connects the knowledge of God's glory with the "face of Jesus Christ." It's not a literal face, but a revelation of God's character and being. The light shines in our hearts, meaning it's a spiritual understanding, a revelation of faith, that allows us to see Jesus for who he truly is. This is the inner sight, the vision of faith, that matters most.
When we read the Gospels, we don't just read about a man; we encounter the living Word. We see his compassion for the sick, his unwavering love for the outcast, his courage in the face of injustice. We hear his voice in the parables, teaching us about the Kingdom of God. We witness his ultimate sacrifice on the cross, demonstrating the depth of his love for humanity.
This is how we see Jesus. Not with our physical eyes, but with the eyes of our hearts. We see him in the faces of those he loves – the poor, the marginalized, the broken. We see him in the moments of grace, in the acts of kindness, in the whispers of hope.
Matthew 25:40: "Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me." This verse highlights how our interaction with others, especially the vulnerable, becomes an encounter with Christ himself.
People can see Jesus Christ through you.
The core idea is that as Christians, we are called to be reflections of Christ. We are, in a sense, living epistles, meant to be read by the world. This isn't about pretending to be perfect, but about allowing the love and character of Christ to shine through our imperfect selves.
Matthew 5:16: "Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven." This verse is foundational. Our good deeds, motivated by faith and love, are meant to point beyond ourselves to God. They are a light that illuminates the presence of Christ in our lives. It's not about drawing attention to ourselves, but to the source of our goodness – Jesus.
John 13:35: "By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another." Love is the defining characteristic of a Christian. The way we love, not just those who are easy to love, but also those who are different, difficult, or even our enemies, is a powerful testimony to the transforming love of Christ.
2 Corinthians 3:2-3: "You yourselves are our letter, written on our hearts, known and read by everyone. You show that you are a letter from Christ, the result of our ministry, written not with ink but with the Spirit of the living God, not on tablets of stone but on tablets of human hearts." This passage beautifully describes believers as living letters. Our lives are meant to be a testament to the grace and truth of Christ. People "read" us, observing our behavior, our interactions, and our character. When Christ lives within us, our lives become a powerful message, written not with ink, but with the very Spirit of God.
Showing Compassion: When we show genuine care and concern for others, especially those who are hurting or in need, we reflect the compassion of Christ. A listening ear, a helping hand, a word of encouragement – these simple acts can reveal the love of Jesus to those around us.
Forgiving Others: In a world that often emphasizes holding grudges and seeking revenge, the act of forgiveness is radical. When we forgive others, as Christ forgave us, we demonstrate the power of grace and reconciliation.
Serving Others: Jesus came not to be served, but to serve. When we adopt a servant-hearted attitude, putting the needs of others before our own, we reflect the humility and selflessness of Christ.
Speaking Truth with Love: Speaking the truth, even when it's difficult, is an act of love. When we do so with gentleness and respect, we demonstrate the integrity and character of Christ.
Living with Integrity: Our words and actions should align. When we live with honesty and integrity, we build trust and credibility, making our witness for Christ more effective.
Bearing Fruit of the Spirit: Galatians 5:22-23 lists the fruit of the Spirit: love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. As we grow in Christ, these qualities should become increasingly evident in our lives, demonstrating the presence of the Holy Spirit and pointing others to Jesus.
It's important to remember that we are all works in progress. We will stumble and fall. But the key is to keep our eyes fixed on Jesus, to continue to grow in grace, and to allow the Holy Spirit to transform us from the inside out. As we do, others will see Jesus reflected in our lives.
The image of Jesus isn't static; it's dynamic and ever-evolving as we deepen our relationship with him. It's an image painted by faith, colored by our experiences, and illuminated by the Holy Spirit.
So, how do we know what Jesus looks like? We look with the eyes of faith, and we see a Savior whose love transcends all physical form. We see a King whose glory shines brighter than any earthly light. We see a friend who walks beside us, a shepherd who guides us, and a God who dwells within us. And that, more than any portrait, is the true image of Christ.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, open the eyes of my heart to see you more clearly. Help me to encounter your love and grace, so that the image of you within me may grow brighter each day. Amen.