In our search for love and in our desire for love we might sometimes ask, "Where does love come from?" The answer is elusive, and the origins of love remain something of a mystery sometimes, even as we experience it.
But believers start by making this assertion: Love comes from God. God is its source and its keeper.
Live into this gracious truth even now as you set aside some time alone with the Source of all love.
May you be made strong with all the strength that comes from his glorious power, and may you be prepared to endure everything with patience, while joyfully giving thanks to the Father, who has enabled you to share in the inheritance of the saints in the light.
Colossians 1:11-12
When I read today’s passage in Colossians about strength and power, I don’t think about super heroes who save the world or politicians who think they can. I don’t think about body builders or fancy suits on Wall Street.
I think about my close family members who have faced serious illnesses. I think about friends who have followed God’s dream for them, leaving behind what’s familiar and moving across the world. I think about some homeless mothers I used to work with who were striving to rise above their circumstances. I think about some kids in my youth group who dealt positively with bullying.
This is the kind of strength the writer of Colossians is talking about – strength that comes from God. Colossians doesn’t say that this strength allows us to defeat bad guys or to escape trouble. Rather, it is the ability to endure challenges with patience, even with joy and thanksgiving. That is super-human! It’s the Spirit of God that gives us the power to endure and the power to praise.
Meredith Shaw
Almighty God, sometimes I get drawn into how the world defines strength and power. I thank you for giving us another kind of power - a strength marked by patience and joy. Help me to trust in your power when I face hard times. Amen.
Imagine a stream running over its banks.
The waters cannot be held back
And will not be contained.
Tell out the good news.
"Warn" everyone.
God's loving flood is coming.