The crowds shouted Jesus’ praise and hailed the coming of the King that first Palm Sunday, but by Friday the crowds were shouting for Jesus’ execution. Knowing what we know about Jesus, that raises many questions in our minds. John writes in his Gospel that even the disciples didn’t understand it while it was happening, but “Only after Jesus was glorified did they realize that these things had been written about him and that these things had been done to him.” This week we’ll use Palm Sunday and John’s words as a mirror for ourselves. Do we understand? Will we respond accordingly? The King is Coming!
Paul closes his letter to the Colossians with a list of greetings and people. It’s a section we might normally skim through, but it paints a picture of the life of the early church, particularly in its shared ministry. The Apostle Paul is not a Lone Ranger in ministry, rather he is part of a very necessary network of Christians who together further the kingdom of God. May we recognize and devote ourselves to our part in God’s ongoing work – both as individuals and as a congregation – as we celebrate The Power of Shared Ministry.
Paul ends the main body of his letter to the Colossians with instructions for Being a Gospel Presence in society among those who are not yet in the church (“outsiders”). His instructions focus on Prayer that is persistent, watchful, and grateful; Proclamation of the mystery of Christ that is clear and understandable; and Presence in the community that is full of grace, interacting with society with wisdom and winsomeness. May this be our guide for all our interactions, whether in-person or online, especially with those outside the church.
difference in how we live. This week, we will explore Paul’s words of letting Christ’s peace rule our hearts. When that happens, what comes out of us should be a reflection of the peace we have been called to. What is this peace? What should come out of us? Join us as we unpack these three rich verses from Paul.
In Colossians 3, the Apostle Paul gives instructions for relationships in the household. While these have been misused as a power grab by some, Paul is giving the Church a guide for following Jesus at home through love, service and mutual submission. May we take these instructions to heart as a guide for following Jesus in all our relationships in and out of the home.