Today's Bible Reading: Colossians 3

Selected Biblical Text
Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God. When Christ, who is your life, appears, then you also will appear with him in glory. (Colossians 3:1-4 NIV)

Reflecting and Thinking
Jesus is our life. As is the case with many of Paul's letters, the letter to the Colossians can be divided into a doctrinal section and a practical section. The foundational truth upon which the practical admonitions of Chapter 3 are built is the identity of Jesus as our life. We intentionally distance ourselves from the evil that was part of a former way of life because we have new life in his knowledge and image. We live a different kind of life with different attitudes because of his presence in our hearts. We are indwelt by his word which overflows in our teaching and admonition and worship -- in all that we do. Our relationships are changed by his presence.

Our world seeks life in a lot of different places. What are some of the items you would include in a short list of "life essentials?" What does the text mean when it says Jesus is our life? Do you have more difficulty with avoiding evil or with adding goodness? What does it mean to you that Jesus "is all, and is in all"?

Prayer
Dear God, we are thankful that you have not left us on our own in this Christian life. We are grateful that you have let us see and experience newness in Christ, with changed hearts and changed thoughts. Help us focus on things above and things eternal. Protect us from evil and encourage us in Christ-likeness. Teach us gratitude, in the name of the Lord Jesus, Amen.