"Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things." Colossians 3:2 NIV
Read Colossians 3:1-17
In reading today's passage, I remember the song "We Can Be More Than We Are" by the Canadian rock band April Wine. The lyrics contain a powerful message that inspires listeners to overcome obstacles and push beyond their comfort zones to achieve extraordinary things. Here's the chorus.
You can be somebody
You can be more than you are
You can be someone
You can be more than you are
I noticed some common themes shared with the song.
Transformation and Renewal: The lyrics encourage listeners to recognize their potential and strive for greatness. It speaks of transformation and the possibility of becoming more than our current selves. Verse 10 of the passage emphasizes the renewal of the new self in the image of our Creator. The song and the passage highlight the idea that we can change, grow, and evolve.
Setting Hearts and Minds on Higher Things: The song urges us to set our hearts and minds on higher aspirations beyond earthly limitations. While there is nothing wrong in seeking our full human potential, verses 1-2 instruct us to focus on things above, where Christ is seated.
"put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator. Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things."
Both song and scripture emphasize the importance of aligning our thoughts and desires with spiritual truths rather than being consumed by worldly concerns.
Putting Off the Old and Putting On the New: The song encourages us to leave behind negative traits and behaviors–an essential objective for Christians. Verses 5-9 lists vices to put to death, such as sexual immorality, anger, and deceit. Also, verses 12- 14 describe virtues to embrace: compassion, kindness, forgiveness, and love. The song's message aligns with this call to put on the new self.
Unity and Gratitude: The song speaks of unity and the possibility of achieving greatness together. Verse 15 emphasizes peace and thankfulness within the community of believers.
"Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful."
The song and the text emphasize the importance of relationships, forgiveness, and love.
Living in Christ's Name: The song's lyrics encourage us to be somebody, to be more than we are. Verse 17 reminds us that whatever we do—whether in word or deed—should be done in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God.
We must live purposefully and intentionally as followers, recognizing our identity in Christ and looking beyond the temporal earthly desires that bind us to the liberation of Christ, which sets us free to achieve extraordinary things by the Holy Spirit.
Heavenly Father, we come before You with hearts open, seeking transformation and renewal. Help us rise above the distractions of this world, fixing our gaze on eternal truths. Clothe us in compassion, that we may bear one another's burdens; in kindness, that our words and actions may reflect Your love; in humility, recognizing that all good gifts come from You; in patience, as we journey alongside imperfect fellow travelers; and in forgiveness, just as You have forgiven us. May Your peace rule in our hearts, transcending circumstances and calming anxious thoughts. Let gratitude overflow from our lips, for every breath is a gift from You. Bind us together in unity as members of Your body, the Church.
Lord Jesus, May Your name be on our lips, whether we speak or serve. May our work and worship be done in Your name, bringing glory to You. May our homes and relationships reflect Your grace and truth. May our hearts overflow with thanksgiving, even in trials. May we live as ambassadors of Your kingdom, shining Your light in a darkened world.
Holy Spirit, Empower us to put off the old self—the selfish desires, the anger, the malice—and put on the new self—compassion, kindness, and love. Teach us to bear with one another and to forgive as You have forgiven us. Guide us in Your wisdom.
May everything we do—in word or deed—be done in Your name. In Jesus' precious name, we pray. Amen.
Blessings,
Pastor Tim
