Purpose Given Life

Colossians 1:21 (MSG)  You yourselves are a case study of what he does. At one time you all had your backs turned to God, thinking rebellious thoughts of him, giving him trouble every chance you got. 

Many of us have moments when we wonder why God created us. We cry out for God to define the reason for our existence; we struggle with our purpose in life. These times of questioning and self-doubt come and go, but we can be confident there is a grand design for our lives.

There is a reason we are in this world and this reason is so much bigger than any insecurities we may be experiencing. The passage today speaks of Christ's greatness, His supremacy. The fact He assumed human form, walked among us and then suffered physically for us assures me of His love. He doesn't need me or you, but He wants us.  His indescribable love desires our love and companionship forever.

But now, by giving himself completely at the Cross, actually dying for you, Christ brought you over to God's side and put your lives together, whole and holy in his presence. (Colossians 1:22 MSG) 

Once we come to terms with our sinfulness and reach out to God to help make us right with Him, our lives change. We aren't perfect, but we are made perfect through Christ. Attitudes change, purposes change and thinking changes. One of these changes is our desire to share Christ's love with those we love.  We even want to share it with people we don't have such strong feelings for.

As Believers we recognize the difference Christ has made for our hearts and we want to tell the world. How are you we going to do this today?  With whom are we going to share the reason for our hope? (1 Peter 3:15)

Colossians 1:15-23

Luke 23:32-43

Even death cannot separate us from the love of Christ.  What an amazing statement and one I draw comfort from.  This week as we prepare for the celebration of All Saint's Sunday we are drawn to the cross.  If not for the cross there would be no joy in this world, no hope at the death of a loved one.  It is because of the cross I was able to praise God and sing following my husband's death.

Do you have a similar experience?  These are the stories we are called to share with the world.  People who do not know Jesus cannot have the same peace Christians hold in their hearts.  This fact does not make the life/death struggle any easier.  It simply gives us a reason to move forward, because we know we will be reunited again.  These are empty words to the world; meaningless noise that only fills the dead air.

Jesus answered him, “Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise.”

The words above are just what I need to hear.  The words above fill my heart with hope that life has a purpose and we are all part of that purpose - that amazing plan.  What will fill your heart this Sunday, as the names of the faithful are read aloud?  Tears may fill the eyes, but peace will fill the hearts of the faithful followers.

Read the Luke 23:32-43 text here.  Listen to the text here.