Saturday 23 April 2022

Psalm 133

Background

The Apostle Paul wrote this letter to the church in Colossae (a city in what is now Turkey). He sets out the message of Christ to counter false teachers who had been influencing the church. He stresses the power and glory of the risen Christ, as being the image of God; all the fullness of God dwells in him.  In his letter, Paul offers practical ways of living for the followers of Christ, whom he states have been raised with Christ. He encourages them to set their hearts and minds on the things above (God's kingdom, not earthly ways). He instructs them to live differently from how they used to live before, setting aside their worldly ways and believing in and following Christ. Paul reminds them of various ways they used to live and that now they are to clothe themselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. They were to live with forgiveness and love towards others, as they had received from God. Above all he instructs "clothe yourselves with love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony." (v. 14)

There is a saying “a leopard never changes its spots” meaning it’s impossible to change your character no matter how hard you try. In one sense that is true, however Paul is saying yes we can all change. He says followers of Christ have died to themselves and their life is hidden in Christ. The power to live a new changed life comes from Jesus. We started this week  by reflecting on Christ’s Resurrection, how he rose from the dead in triumphant Easter glory. This is the gospel of  good news. We have come full circle, for the Resurrection of Christ raised from death to life is also the testimony of all believers, being raised with Christ. By Christ's Resurrection we have a new life in him, through the power of the Holy Spirit in us, which changes us from glory to glory.

To Ponder:

• What particular insights have you found helpful this week? 
• Was there a moment in your life you can pinpoint when you believed in the crucified, risen Christ?
• How might you turn your reflections into actions?  

Prayer

Lord, as we have journeyed together this week, may we see how we are connected to one another through the Cross and Resurrection. May we be open for you to lead us into the deep waters of your presence and truth. Thank you for being with us, Holy Spirit leading our thoughts, reflections and responses. In you we trust, seeking to clothe ourselves with the love that binds us together in perfect unity. Amen.

 
Photo: Angleena Keizer