“God has chosen to make known among the Gentiles the glorious riches of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory. … We proclaim him … that we may present everyone perfect in Christ.”
Colossians 1:27, 29
Whatever hat I’m wearing—radio missionary, pastor, police and hospital chaplain, or simply friend—I love to proclaim Jesus! Paul describes this mystery or divine truth as Christ in us, our eternal hope. Scottish theologian William Barclay wrote, “Open to everyone is the good news of the gospel, the love of God in Christ Jesus, and the transforming power which can bring holiness into life” (1959).
One Sunday afternoon a staff sergeant and good friend walked into the office where I worked. He knew he needed Jesus, but wrestled with it, telling me what he had said before: “If I do this, my family will disown me, clean out my room, burn anything that is mine, and no longer welcome me.” I could see the tears welling up in his eyes. It was an agonizing decision.
Later that day my friend said, “I’m ready!” We got on our knees and prayed. Jesus became his Savior. We talked, cried, and looked at Scriptures to encourage his heart and mind. Christ was now in him and would carry him gently through the turmoil it might cause in his family.
One Sunday afternoon a staff sergeant and good friend walked into the office where I worked. He knew he needed Jesus, but wrestled with it, telling me what he had said before: “If I do this, my family will disown me, clean out my room, burn anything that is mine, and no longer welcome me.” I could see the tears welling up in his eyes. It was an agonizing decision.
Later that day my friend said, “I’m ready!” We got on our knees and prayed. Jesus became his Savior. We talked, cried, and looked at Scriptures to encourage his heart and mind. Christ was now in him and would carry him gently through the turmoil it might cause in his family.
Scripture Focus
Colossians 1:15-29
Insight
Proclaim Jesus! There is a celebration in heaven when a lost person is spiritually found.
Bible In A Year
- Judges 18-19
- Psalm 118
- 1 Corinthians 11
