Our scripture this morning is Colossians 1:15-20.
He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation; for in him all things in heaven and on earth were created, things visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or powers—all things have been created through him and for him. He himself is before all things, and in him all things hold together. He is the head of the body, the church; he is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, so that he might come to have first place in everything. For in him all the fullness of God was pleased to dwell, and through him God was pleased to reconcile to himself all things, whether on earth or in heaven, by making peace through the blood of his cross.
Paul writes to remind the church at Colossae (and us) of Christ’s supremacy in all of creation. It seems strange that a baby born to a poor couple in a stable and later executed by the occupying Roman Empire could be the savior of the world. The saying “God works in mysterious ways” can have no better proof than this!
People have wrestled with the reality of Jesus since His birth. Why would God send His only son to the world in this way? God wanted us to choose to follow Him not because He is all powerful but because He loves us and wants our love in return.
Jesus came to be one of us, to live as we do and experience everything we do as humans. No matter what issues we bring, He can say truthfully and with love “Been there, done that”. God loves us so much He is willing to forgive all our sins when we come to Him in repentance and change our hearts and lives.
Gracious God, we are amazed at Your constant love and care for us. Help us to be strong in faith and share Your light with the world. Amen.