ECCLESIOLOGICAL ETCHING
July 30, 2021
Scripture: Colossians 1:1-2
Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, and Timothy our brother, To the saints and faithful brothers and sisters in Christ in Colossae: Grace to you and peace from God our Father.
Thought for the Day: Paul begins this letter as any letter should start – he greets the recipients. He gets personal. This is helpful for us in a couple of ways (probably more than a couple). First, it is good to remember that Paul was writing to specific people in a very specific situation. There are times when we know the backstory, and other times when our best guess is nothing but a guess. The reason I find this helpful comes in those moments when we do not understand exactly what is being said. In some situations, even the brightest scholars have very diverse opinions as they are uncertain of Paul’s concern or reason for writing. For that reason, don’t be too hard on yourself if something seems random or strange. Second, I believe it is helpful to remember how the Gospel is personal, and not simply for those who lived 2000 years ago. It is personal for you and for me, as the grace and peace spoken of by Paul are very personal. They are gifts from God given to you wherever you are in life. You can be at a high point or in a time of grief. You can feel completely lost or passionately focused on what you feel to be God’s purpose for your life. Whatever your situation, the Gospel is personal – the gifts of grace and peace are individualized for you.
Prayer: As I pray of your grace and peace, O Lord, let me recognize how they come to life in this moment of time and find creative ways of meeting me right where I am. Amen.
PREACHING THIS SUNDAY
The Rev. Marilyn Fiddmont
Don’t miss her…
