Colossians 2:6-7 – So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness. (NIV)

A couple of years ago, we added a rockery to our church campus through a gracious donation from some church members. It was built on the side of a slope which had been perpetually covered in moss and weeds. The whole area, right next to our main entrance, was very unattractive. One morning, a group of landscapers appeared and transformed the whole area into a beautiful Japanese-type garden. Large boulders were built into place and special shrubs were planted. It was remarkable to see the slope change from an eyesore into a very picturesque shrubbery.

As time has passed, the roots of the plants have grown stronger, which means that during summer and fall, we experience some beautiful colours all over the garden area. Now that we've added a special irrigation system, we can look forward to the shrubs and small trees growing and expanding all over the rockery. What was once an unattractive zone has become a place of beauty and pride for our members and visitors.

Today's highlighted verses from Paul to the Colossians convey the same type of planting and growth with regard to our faith in Christ. His Spirit works within us to produce thankful hearts and souls devoted to God's kingdom. As our faith deepens, our spiritual influence can expand so that we may positively share Christ's blessings with our families and friends, neighbours and colleagues. In other words, we become living witnesses of the ministry and mission of Jesus in our homes, churches, circles, and communities.

Points to ponder: How thankful am I to know that Jesus is my Lord and Saviour? Do others see that thankfulness in me?

Prayer: Lord Jesus, thank You for planting faith within each of us and for helping us to grow spiritually. Encourage us to deepen our connection to You, so that we may become better witnesses of Your ways, words, and works. In Your holy name, we gratefully pray. Amen.

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About the author:

John Stuart <traqair@aol.com>
Knoxville, Tennessee, USA
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