For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God.Colossians 3:5
Put to death therefore what is earthly in you...I find the scriptures amazing.
Like its Author, it defies our human boxes and limitations while presenting truth and light for our (very human) path. It figures out ways of saying that things ARE in fact right/wrong while opening doors that help us find freedom, perspective and rescue in an ever changing landscape. It shows us which life is REAL... while at the same time helping us see what real LIFE is.
It is a breathtaking collection of God's words.
As we have progressed through Colossians we have seen many incredible examples of God's powerful Voice... but one in particular struck me this week as we talked. It is found in verses 3 & 5 of chapter 3. Paul tells us that we are dead men/women walking... that we have a new life hidden in Christ. It is connected to the imagery used earlier with baptism - we have died WITH Christ and are now something different... a new creation, a new man, a child of light.
YET
Two verses later Paul tells us that we must put to death that which is earthly... which feels very real to my very human heart.
But wait... which is it Paul. Are we dead and hidden in Christ OR are we wrestling with ourselves and trying to put to death that which is earthly.
The answer of course is, "yes."
But knowing that we need more than to just "know" that we have to fight everyday for this life in Christ... God gives us in His scriptures through His servant Paul the most powerful tool He can - He gives us hope. Hope of who we REALLY are. Hope of who we CAN become. Hope in WHO really holds us in Himself.
And hope does not disappoint... Romans 5:5!
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