DEVOTION, 12/21/20, Christ in you

The mystery which has been hidden from ages and from generations, but now has been revealed to His saints.To them God willed to make known what are the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles:which is Christ in you, the hope of glory (Colossians 1:26-27).

We continue the Christmas theme. What is a mystery?  It refers to truth previously hidden under the Old Covenant,  revealed for the first time to the saints (believers in Jesus) under the New Covenant. The New Covenant blessings far surpass the blessings of the Old Covenant. This mystery, hidden from us in times past, is now revealed. Part of the mystery is that God wills to redeem Gentiles (that’s us). Under the Old Covenant, God worked exclusively with the Jews. Now we Gentiles hear the fantastic news that the Jewish Messiah is also the Messiah and Savior for Gentiles.

That is part one of the mystery. Part two is that Christ dwells within those who trust in Him. There are no words to describe this incredible blessing. The Son of God, who lived within the womb of Mary, now dwells within the souls of His people. It just doesn’t get any better than that! We have hope that we will inherit the eternal glory of God because Jesus lives within our hearts. Remember the hymn we sing at Easter? “You ask me how I know He lives; He lives within my heart.”

Christmas reveals to us two mysteries. God loves all people, Jews, Gentiles, black, white, Asian, etc.. All are invited to receive Jesus and all the blessings He brings. And if we abide in faith, He abides with us, forever.

Father in heaven, thank you for bringing to light these two marvelous mysteries. How thankful I am to know that You love all people because that means I am included. Thank You, Jesus, for condescending to send Your Spirit to dwell in my spirit. Your presence with me gives me the strength and courage to face life with confidence. May Your name be blessed forever. Amen.