Scripture Passage that Caught my attention today: Colossian 3:1-4 So if you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. 2 Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth, 3 for you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. 4 When Christ who is your life is revealed, then you also will be revealed with him in glory.
Observation: It’s an important reminder.
Application: It’s very natural to worry. Things happen on this earth and we wonder how it will all work out. Sometimes we fear things will not work out to our liking. We see various forms of writing on the wall. The economy, interpersonal relationships, medical conditions and the like can put some pretty hefty dents into our optimism for the future.
The writer of Colossians is not immune to such realities. Nevertheless, he prompts us to take to heart what has been done for us through Christ. We have been raised!
Sure, the earthly circumstances we face are real, but they are not permanent nor are they ultimately defining. This is why the biblical witness beacons us to set our minds on the things that are above.
This is not to say that our tasks on earth do not matter. Quite the contrary. Later in this chapter the writer says, “Whatever your task, put yourselves into it, as done for the Lord and not for your masters, 24 since you know that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward; you serve the Lord Christ.” In context, the sentence is actually addressed to ancient slaves. But in a very real way we are all called to be slaves/servants of Christ. And so we do everything we do as if we were doing it for the Lord. Why? Because ultimately we are called to serve our Lord.
Prayer: Lord, let any who are discouraged be encouraged by what you have done and by what you continue to do. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
(Readings today included: 1 Kings 20-21, 2 Chronicles 17, and Colossians 3)
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