Capable Through Christ

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Scripture:

Colossians 1:11 May you be made strong with all the strength that comes from his glorious power, and may you be prepared to endure everything with patience, while joyfully 12 giving thanks to the Father, who has enabled you to share in the inheritance of the saints in the light.

Observation:

The hope provided for God’s children is brought to us by the birth of his son. That tiny baby, Jesus, made it possible for us to be adopted into God’s family. With that adoption come rights as children, as true members, not just with a title but with the power and strength. Therefore, not only do we receive position, but also empowerment. This is empowerment for the long-haul. As we are united with him it is in eternal service to the kingdom that we live out our lives.

There is no promise of an easy life but there is strength provided to endure, all the while with a joyful spirit. We remain joyful, not because we enjoy what’s happening, but because we are united with our Heavenly Father. Because of Christmas we may become children of God and through Christ we are made capable of that position.

Application:

This morning I was rocking my baby granddaughter and singing to her, “Jesus loves me, this I know.” It’s a familiar little song that we may have learned in our childhood or in Sunday School. However, this morning it hit me in a profound way. I want my little granddaughter to know how much Jesus loves her. He loves her enough that he entered this world as a vulnerable baby — just as she is. God took a chance by sending his beloved son into the world as a human infant. He had to trust young Mary to love, care and nurture him so that he could grow up and fulfill God’s plan. It is through the life, death and resurrection of Christ that we are empowered to be God’s children. This is an amazing miracle!

One of the most frustrating things in life is to be given an assignment, or a position, without being empowered to do the job. Just conferring a title, giving responsibility, without authority is exceedingly difficult. That’s not what God does to his children. Instead we are strengthened by his glorious power. Jesus loves us -- this we know! The empowering presence of the Messiah transforms our lives. Our heavenly Father loves us with such love that he sent his beloved Son to us.

We can endure and we may be joyful. We have been made capable through the gift of Jesus Christ.

Prayer:

Lord, thank you for your empowering presence in our lives.  Amen.

If you would like to read more "Reflecting the Image"  click on the image to take you to the NPH bookstore.The book is also available in Kindle format on Amazon.com.


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