Our scripture this morning is Colossians 2:6-10.
“Therefore, as you received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in him, rooted and built up in him and established in the faith, just as you were taught, abounding in thanksgiving. See to it that no one takes you captive by philosophy and empty deceit, according to human tradition, according to the elemental spirits of the world, and not according to Christ. For in him the whole fullness of deity dwells bodily, and you have been filled in him, who is the head of all rule and authority.”
Jesus came as much more than just a teacher. Of course, He is the holy Son of God, but He didn’t use that to exalt Himself. Instead, He showed us that serving others is the way to serve God.
Jesus is the example of a life in connection with our brothers and sisters, sharing God’s love and mercy through our words and actions. He is also our model for a connection to God, teaching others that they may choose a relationship with Him as well. This cross shaped pattern – up to God and out to each other – is the way to be part of His eternal plan for us.
Hearing and understanding this is important, but more important yet is that we “walk in him, rooted and built up in him and established in the faith, just as you were taught, abounding in thanksgiving” (v. 6). We were created for a relationship with God and each other. Learning the lesson and living it out is what Jesus calls us to do.
Gracious God, we are thankful that You sent Jesus to teach us Your way and lead us back into connection with You. Help us to be the voice of the Good News and the hands of Your love to all. Amen.