“He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation, for all things in heaven and on earth were created in him—all things, whether visible or invisible, whether thrones or dominions, whether principalities or powers—all things were created through him and for him. He himself is before all things and all things are held together in him.” Colossians 1:15-17 NET
Invisible God,
Paul writes to the churches in Colossae. He has never been there, but a man called Epaphras (1:7), a believer, has, and carried news to Paul. So before Paul launches into teaching he takes 14 verses to greet, give honour and encourage them. So they get to know him a little first. How like You Lord God. Showing us how much You love us by sending Your Son so we could know what You were like. Before You led us to the cross and repentance.
What a letter! Lifting Jesus up to equality with You, God. We now call and know You as a Trinity. Father Son and Holy Ghost. Paul was teaching them not to see You and Jesus as anything but coequal. Jesus was there with You at creation, all things were created through Him and for Him.
What a letter! Gentle Jesus meek and mild is also the King of creation. The one who stilled the storm actually made the seas, organised the science of oceanic currents and tides and set the weather systems in motion. Created the molecules that enabled a substance to be liquid, solid or gas. Made man in Your image. He still holds all things together with You and by Your Holy Spirit.
Yes Jesus loves us, He is our friend and comforter, our good Shepherd. But also due respect and honour. We now fellowship with You Father, Your Son and Your Holy Spirit. Help us to always let You have the last word.
In Jesus name we pray, Amen.
Suggestions for prayer . . .
Invisible God,
For our close family.
For our extended family, friends, neighbours.
For our church fellowship, ministers and congregations.
For our king and all those in authority (1 Timothy 2:2). World kings, dictators, leaders and rulers.
For Ukraine. Please end war, soon.
For Gaza, all the Middle East. Solutions for long term peace.
For our emergency services, the people who serve here and in war zones
For the family of those drowned in the Yacht in Sicily and those who survived the trauma.
For those who speak on behalf of others, advocates, carers and parents.
For those who use their power to do good, Christian charities, overseas missions.
For us to give thanks for creation, its beauty and knowing Jesus our creator.
For us to give thanks for daybreak and breaking our fast. For evenings, night, sleep and rest. For the little things we sometimes take for granted.
In Jesus name we pray, Amen.
Worship Wednesday 21st August 2024
You’re the Word of God the Father,
From before the world began;
Every star and every planet
Has been fashioned by Your hand.
All creation holds together
By the power of Your voice:
Let the skies declare Your glory,
Let the land and seas rejoice!
You’re the Author of creation,
You’re the Lord of every man;
And Your cry of love rings out
Across the lands.
Yet You left the gaze of angels,
Came to seek and save the lost,
And exchanged the joy of heaven
For the anguish of a cross.
With a prayer You fed the hungry,
With a word You stilled the sea.
Yet how silently You suffered
That the guilty may go free.
With a shout You rose victorious,
Wresting victory from the grave,
And ascended into heaven
Leading captives in Your wake.
Now You stand before the Father
Interceding for Your own.
From each tribe and tongue and nation
You are leading sinners home.
Lyrics: Stuart Townend