Our Resurrection

“Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.”
Colossians 3:1-2 NIV) 

What a wonderful Festival. The celebration of the resurrection of Jesus of Nazareth is the Number 1 Festival in the Christian calendar. Most Christians are familiar with the stories of Jesus’ appearances after His resurrection – to Mary Magdalene in the garden, to Cleopas and his comrade as they walked to Emmaus and to the disciples as they locked themselves away for fear of the Jews. It even affects the lifestyle of non-Christians. Let me give you a tip. If you intend buying something from a supermarket on Easter Day you will be disappointed.  You will find them closed. It’s the one day in the year when the law says that supermarkets have to be closed!

But Christ’s resurrection isn’t the only one that is important to Christians, in fact to all people. Paul tells us of another one – our own. He starts our passage by writing, “Since you have been raised with Christ.”

The resurrection of all Christians is very important and throughout his letters Paul teaches us a lot about it. Some of them are about how it will happen. Other teachings tell us about what we will be like. This is what we can focus our minds on today.

In the second half of our reading. Paul writes that we should “set our minds on things that are above, not on things that are on the earth”. In other words he is talking about our priorities. Are these the same as God’s priorities or do we tend to prefer earthly pleasures? God cannot give glory to those whose minds are set on worldly things. In His sermon on the mount Jesus told us to” seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all [other things including spiritual blessings] will be given to you as well”(Matthew 6:33). He won’t have anyone who says to Him, “Lord, Lord” but doesn’t do what He says (Matthew 7:21).

On Easter Day we remember Christ’s resurrection and give thanks for it. But let us remember that we also will be resurrected, and prepare for that time by seeking the things that are above, not earthly things.

Prayer
We give you thanks Father, for the resurrection of your Son, without which we would have no hope.  But we also want to thank you for our resurrection to be with you in glory, and pray that our minds will be set on the things that are above. In Jesus’ name.
Amen

Study by Chris Reeve

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About the Author:
Chris Reeve is a retired Elder. His local congregation is Invicta (Blean) Congregation, which is part of Grace Communion International/Worldwide Church of God UK.

Local Congregation:
Invicta (Blean) Congregation
Blean Village Hall
School Lane
Blean
CANTERBURY
CT2 9JA

Meeting Time:
Saturday 11.30 a.m.

Local Congregational Contact:
Mrs Annette Woods
Phone: 07473 188326
Email: annettewoods2@nhs.net