March 19

Risen With Christ

Therefore, since you have been raised with Christ, strive for the things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. — Col 3:1 BSB

Someone might say, "That's where I struggle! I'm afraid this isn't true for me; my life is filled with sin and sorrow; I don’t hear Easter chimes in my soul, no joyful fellowship with the Risen Lord, no victory over dark and hostile powers." But if you are a disciple of Christ, you can confidently affirm that you have risen with Him! You were laid in the grave with Christ, and with Him, you rose, according to God's purpose, even if your feelings and experience don’t reflect it yet. This truth is clearly taught in Ephesians 2:1-10 and Romans 6. The whole Church, including everyone who believes in our Lord Jesus, has entered the light of Easter's dawn. The challenge for you, me, and all of us is to begin acting as if this is a conscious reality. As we dare to live it, we will experience it.

Notice how the Apostle emphasizes this: "You died, you were raised with Christ, your life is hidden with Christ." Take time to think about this and make it real in your heart.

The Cross of Jesus stands between you and the constant pull of the world, just as when Christian's neighbors tried to persuade him to return to the City of Destruction. This doesn’t mean we should be indifferent to all that is beautiful and good in the life God has given us, but the Cross should separate us from all that is selfish, sensual, and driven by the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life (1 John 2:15-17).

Set your mind on things above (Colossians 3:2). “As a person thinks in their heart, so are they.” Many of us make little effort to guard our thoughts. The door to our heart is left wide open, allowing a chaotic crowd of thoughts to wander in and out without control. If we would only ask the Holy Spirit to govern our thoughts, so that we dwell on what is true and good, a remarkable transformation would happen in our lives (Philippians 4:7-8).

Recognize that Christ is your life—He is within you! Ensure that nothing hinders the manifestation of His glorious indwelling. Don’t worry if the world misunderstands you. One day, your motives and reasons will be made clear (Colossians 3:4).

Prayer

Grant, most gracious God, that we may love and seek You always and everywhere, and may at last find and hold You forever in the life to come. Amen.