Colossians 2:6-7 So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness. (NIV)
A couple of years ago, we added a rockery to our church campus through a gracious donation from some church members. It was built on the side of a slope which was forever covered in moss and weeds. The whole area was very unattractive and was right next to our main entrance. One morning, a group of landscapers appeared and transformed the whole area into a beautiful Japanese type of garden. Large boulders were built into place and special shrubs were planted. It was remarkable to see the slope change from being an eyesore into a very picturesque shrubbery.
As the years have passed, the roots of the plants have grown stronger which means that during summer and fall, we will experience some beautiful colors all over the garden area. And now that we’ve added a special irrigation system, we can look forward to the shrubs and small trees growing and expanding all over the rockery. What was once an unattractive zone has become a place of beauty and pride for our members and visitors.
Today’s highlighted verses from Paul to the Colossians convey the same type of planting and growth with regard to our faith in Christ. His Spirit works within us to produce thankful hearts and devoted souls to God’s Kingdom. As our faith deepens, our spiritual influence can expand so that we may positively share Christ’s blessings with our families and friends, neighbors and colleagues. In other words, we become living witnesses of the ministry and mission of Jesus in our homes, churches, circles, and communities.
Point to ponder
How thankful am I to know Jesus is my Lord and Savior? Do others see that thankfulness in me?
Prayer: Lord Jesus, thank You for planting faith within each of us and for helping us to spiritually grow. Encourage us to deepen our connection to You, so we may become better witnesses of Your ways, words, and works. In Your Holy Name, we gratefully pray. Amen.
John Stuart is the pastor of Erin Presbyterian Church in Knoxville, Tennessee. Come along and join us for our Sunday worship service at 11:00 AM. You will be made very welcome 😊
Today’s image is one of John’s latest Pentecost images called ‘Spirit 2018.’ If you would like to view a larger version, please click this link: Spirit.
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