Paul drops a lot of names here of fellow servants of Christ. Such a great group of believers with the same mission. The common goal was to make Jesus known and to nurture and encourage other believers. How familiar does that sound?
It’s clear that Paul wants to keep in touch. He has identified for the Colossians who they can turn to for help since he’s in prison and unavailable. Seeing the network of believers listed makes me realize how thankful I am for them. Their faithfulness has made it possible for us to know about Jesus!
What are some of the instructions being shared with the Colossians? Be welcoming. Pray for others. Follow will of God. Share this letter. There are some great nuggets there for us in our own communities. God doesn’t want for us to be lone rangers while we serve him. These are some great ways we can be supporting our fellow believers.
The line that nearly jumped off the page for me was this message to somebody named Archippus. I’m pretty sure that is also a message I should be listening to. “Be sure to carry out the ministry the Lord gave you.” The Lord gave us each a ministry to carry out. Do you know what yours is?
All these years, I’ve thought it was to teach children or lead music. Those were things I enjoyed and excelled at. It wasn’t until several years into my retirement here in Mexico that God gave me a new ministry. My whole life he had been preparing me as a writer so I could write for him and bring his Word back into people’s hands and hearts.
What an awesome honor and privilege. As you sit here today reading my words, realize you are the recipient of the encouragement God called me to give you. It’s hard to describe the feeling of completion when you can reconnect with God’s word. The Holy Spirit will begin to reveal truth to you in a fresh new way.
How God speaks to us is mind boggling, but it shouldn’t be. We should be open and receptive to hear his voice. Even if it’s not audible, his presence can be experienced in several ways. God knows which way you’ll best receive him. In nature. In praise songs. In a quiet room. Sitting at a stop light.
How are you going to move forward having read Paul’s closing instructions to the Colossian believers and those in neighboring communities? Are you a prayer warrior being called up to be an encourager for others? Are you seeking God’s will for your life?
Let’s pray… Father thank you for arming me with your word and your promises. Thank you for the faithful that have gone before me. Give me the boldness I need to proclaim your truth. You are the way, the truth, and the life, and nothing I say or do will change that. No power in this world can change your ultimate power and victory. May I never waver in my faith because of those that tempt me. Help me be strong. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
