12.17.23 | THROUGH HIM: FORMATION
He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation. For by him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things were created through him and for him. | Colossians 1:15-16
Jesus Christ was not only present at Creation, but was the one through whom all was made and for whom all things exist. When we think about history, we should see it as the backdrop by which we understand His work in the world. The whole reason why this world was made was so that we experience the glory of God in Jesus Christ. This world exists THROUGH HIM.
12.24.23 | BY HIM: INCARNATION
For in him all the fullness of God was pleased to dwell, and through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether on earth or in heaven, making peace by the blood of his cross. | Colossians 1:19-20
Jesus Christ came into the world to reconcile it. At Christmas, we are celebrating that all that had been broken was remade. As God becomes flesh, He does it in order to accomplish the work planned before the foundations of the world. This moment of celebration is the fulfillment of all that has come before. The world is healed BY HIM.
12.31.23 | IN HIM: REFORMATION
And he is before all things, and in him all things hold together. And he is the head of the body, the church. He is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in everything he might be preeminent. | Colossians 1:17-18
Jesus Christ lives. Ever since He came into the world, His presence has been felt. As he rose from the dead and ascended into heaven, promising to come back, He also assures us that he is ruling over His creation. This allows us to live a life connected to His Lordship, knowing that we are never outside of His rule and reign. Our life is now lived IN HIM.
