Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Colossians 3:1 NIV
Do you remember lying on your back and looking up at the sky as a child? Perhaps it was a summer day looking up at the puffy clouds and trying to decide what they look like—or staring up into the star-filled night on a cool fall evening. In looking up, our whole perspective changes. There is something about the experience that is freeing.
When we accept Christ, we have a change in our spiritual perspective. While our bodies are still bound to the earth, we have the assurance of far greater things above -- a higher standard, in raising our eyes and hearts to heaven, our attitude changes. Our hearts are now filled with Christ's love, and we see the hopelessness and hurt around us with optimism. The same miracle-working Jesus that saved us can redeem and heal others. We are filled with faith there is not a problem that Jesus can't fix.
In following Christ, we have accepted his invitation. It includes salvation, but also service. In seeing the brokenness around us, we are not just to pray -- and we should always pray -- but take action, clothing the naked, feeding the hungry, and freeing the oppressed. We look up for strength and guidance but around for service as we work to restore God's kingdom on earth to its state of purity before man's fall.
God, thank you for raising us with Christ. Please help us as we follow Jesus' example. Bless all that we do in your name, and may others see your glory in our actions. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.
Blessings,
Pastor Tim
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