Nougat 23

Today’s Holy Nougat extends an invite to consider the Heart of the matter.

“I want you to know how much I have agonized for you and for the church at Laodicea, and for many other believers who have never met me personally.”

‭‭Colossians‬ ‭2:1‬ ‭NLT‬‬

What a beautiful sentiment!

Paul was totally committed to ensure that the needs of the believers were met; he spent serious time in prayer for them on a regular basis. Yet in many instances, he did not know them. That’s some serious dedication to the spreading of the Gospel! Yet so relevant and necessary.

In our current time, it may not seem to be an impressive commitment, as we hear of different communities and even countries facing danger and we (hopefully) respond to the humanitarian crisis. But A) news was slower going in those days, and this was not only a humanitarian response. To agonize indicates dedicated time worrying and perhaps trying to reach a final decision about someone or something. His concern for their spiritual welfare was as a new parent within their baby’s first year!

I suspect that that is also how Christ feels about us. The difference being, as God, He has already discerned how our spiritual coughs and bruises are healed AND He’s also assigned angels to us. And let us not forget the work of God’s Spirit dwelling with us; accompanying us through the Fire , the Flood , the Storm , and joining with Jesus in pleading our case before God; whether we ‘deserve it’ or not.

How blessed we are to have that access and favor! Paul understood that. For his situation was so dire that it was God Almighty Who arrested him mid-journey to Damascus! Remember? When his life got properly turned around even his name was changed! That was probably what motivated him to agonize for strangers in Colossae and Laodicea. For he KNEW first hand the difference that a stranger’s prayers and support could be.

So here’s a thought or two –

Is it possible that others have done the same for us?

If yes, what feeling does it evoke within us towards them and to God?

Does the sacrifice of another on OUR behalf (including Christ) encourage us to do likewise?

I would that it followed reason that these are rhetorical questions. But I recall hearing and seeing the difference in attitudes towards ‘illegal immigrants’ by residents and citizens who were once illegal immigrants. For many, they have obliterated their past, and there’s no room for grace.

Christ’s Love says otherwise. And it demands a response of compassion and grace. Even for those who ‘don’t deserve it.’ And also for those who are new to the Faith. As strange as it seems, it’s a Love that demands and begets more Love!

Are our hearts big enough to do likewise?

Selah

—

May all we seek be found in Christ