Remember the wonders He has done….. In the early 1980’s I had read through Colossians and looking for every time it stated Christ in you, the hope of glory There are a lot of them and as I read. I got excited. Yes, VERY excited! The thought that the Creator of the universe, the one who gave His life for me, the One who comes along side to strength, comfort, guide and correct resides within me and that His plan was for me to represent Him in the world was something to get excited about! That I would bring God glory was over the top!
During this time, an acquaintance asked what miracle I thought was the most spectacular I answered, “Christ in me, the hope of glory!” As I went on and on in my explanation of it, I think, she became sorry that she had asked! I believe that our excitement over God’s word should be a subject for show and tell. I don’t know how to glory in God and not show excitement and tell about it!
Fast forward twenty years in my life. I’m still hiking my trail of pursuing a rich and fulfilling life in the Lord. I once again come to a side trail entitled, Colossians. The first thing I think of is my golden nugget that I treasure so much “Christ in me. my hope of glory!” Yes, I’m still excited about it. No problem in being led to take this loop again for I know the many beautiful vistas which I will see as I have become more familiar with it than twenty years ago. I pick up the Message and read through the four chapters.* I found it so exciting and rich that I read again at an incredibly slow pace. As I read and savor a few verses at a time during this read through, one passage is in neon lights: Colossians 3:12-14.
So, chosen by God for this new life of love, dress in the wardrobe God picked out for you: compassion, kindness, humility, quiet strength, discipline. Be even-tempered, content with second place, quick to forgive an offense. Forgive as quickly and completely as the Master forgave you. And regardless of what else you put on, wear love. It's your basic, all-purpose garment. Never be without it.
As I pondered this passage, I had a funny mini video run on the screen of my mind—a fashion runway for Christians set up in the center of a shopping mall. From the angel on the left of the stage, in a broadcast booth, halo glowing, minor wings a flutter, sharing his message with all who would listen. “And the signature line of this year’s Designer clothes from the Kingdom line of apparel is the classic look of love. You will be missing the mark of eternal Kingdom wear without it! Found in all shades, sizes, and styles, without the basic love of the creator undergirding your compassionate cape, your kindness kilt, or your humble fishnet hosiery, your outfit will be incomplete in the eyes of the One who you desire to please. Believe me I know about these things.” Then I noticed his halo was worn in a rakish fashion and his identity badge had ‘apprentice of school of humility’ stamped on it. I had the odd feeling that it wasn’t his first year in the course and that maybe my current badge bore the same stamp.
Choose Kingdom apparel. Christ in you is the hope of God’s glory, drawing all men unto himself. Make the decision to put on His wardrobe today and everyday.
* Which I strongly suggest to you to do!
Blessings on you and your day!
Mimi
