I want you to know how much I am struggling for you and for those at Laodicea, and for all who have not met me personally. My purpose is that they may be encouraged in heart and united in love, so that they may have the full riches of complete understanding, in order that they may know the mystery of God, namely, Christ, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. I tell you this so that no one may deceive you by fine-sounding arguments. For though I am absent from you in body, I am present with you in spirit and delight to see how orderly you are and how firm your faith in Christ is. Colossians 2:1-5 Help with Secrets A chief in the African country of Malawi came up with a unique way of overcoming a uniquely Malawian problem. Women in that culture do not feel comfortable discussing pregnancy and health issues related to pregnancy. It is a very personal topic. Plus, shadows of superstition keep them in silence. They are afraid that once their pregnancy becomes public knowledge, someone may pronounce a curse on their unborn babies. The traditional beliefs have led to some tragic results. Without being free to talk about the pregnancy, most women don’t receive the medical care they need. Sometimes they deliver at home or on the way to the hospital. Many mothers lose unnecessary amounts of blood in delivery, and tragically lives are lost. So one chief has come up with a society of “secret mothers.” They are respected female elders of the village. They can approach women in private and ask some personal questions. They can give directions and advice that will improve the lives of the mothers and the health of their babies. The apostle Paul adopted a similar, yet more important role with the Christians in the city of Colosse. He was working with them, struggling on their behalf. He wanted them to have health and safety for their souls. He realized it could only come by helping them understand the good news of Jesus. So Paul reveals the mystery of Jesus Christ. The mystery of Jesus isn’t a secret God only wants a few people to know about. In Jesus we discover the mystery of God’s loving plan to rescue all humanity imperiled by the fear of sin and death. God fully accomplished his plan by sending his Son to become one of us, suffer for us, and die in our place. The good news is no longer a mystery, but a treasure for those who believe in Jesus. We treasure the wisdom of God that accomplished our salvation from sin’s curse of death and eternal destruction. We treasure the knowledge God gives us that Jesus our Savior is our health and safety for this life and forever. Prayer: Lord God, thank you for those who, like the apostle Paul, care enough to share the mystery of Christ. Thank you for making that good news plain on the pages of Scripture. Help me to find spiritual peace, safety, and life through Jesus Christ. Amen.
Posted on: Fri, 07 Mar 2014 13:52:22 +0000
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