Colossians 2:6–10
‘For in Christ all the fullness of the Deity lives in bodily form, and in Christ you have been brought to fullness. He is the head over every power and authority.’ (vv9–10)
Realisation means to exhibit the actual existence of something. In our case, it is to exhibit the reality of God in a world of competing ideas, all seeking to lay claim to the meaning of life.
In this multiplicity of meanings, we are consistently subject to becoming first captivated and finally captured by ‘hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the elemental spiritual forces of this world rather than on Christ’ (v8b).
Yet, in the One who fleshed out God’s character on earth for mortal understanding, we have a clear pattern which we are invited to follow.
It may initially appear uncomfortable, for it resists the lure of self-gratification in responding to God’s appeal that we live to serve God and others.
Where Adam blamed God and another in his futile attempt at self-defence (Gen. 3:12), Jesus on the cross surrenders to God, and forgives His executioners, amongst whom we must count ourselves (Luke 23:34), whilst also commending His mother to John’s care (John 19:26–27).
The cross reaches vertically and horizontally, as must we. A measure of the fullness of our faith is the degree to which we are able to realise God’s presence and purpose within the circumstances we find ourselves in.
It is self-evident that we draw nearer to God daily through our obedience. Discipleship is a full-time occupation, carried out within the regular tasks of daily life, family, work and leisure.
Living our lives in Christ establishes God’s kingdom on earth (Matt. 6:10).
SCRIPTURE TO CONSIDER: S. of S. 2:3–15; Deut. 6:10–25; Eph. 5:6–20; 1 Tim. 6:11–21.
AN ACTION TO TAKE: Review the last few months and consider what has been realised through your life. What have you exhibited?
A PRAYER TO MAKE: ‘Lord, may I live in freedom as I seek to exhibit God’s reality in my everyday context. Amen.’
