If then you have been raised with Christ [to a new life, thus sharing His resurrection from the dead], aim at and seek the [rich, eternal treasures] that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God.
Colossians 3:1 AMPC
Have you ever watched marathon runners in action? Their resolute determination and unwavering focus on the race ahead are awe-inspiring. The singular goal they pursue is to cross the finish line. So, their commitment to the race is evident in every stride. One step after the other, they focus on the next checkpoint, their gaze fixed forward as they run until the race is completed. Marathon runners understand that to go the distance, they must run unburdened. Therefore, they shed any excess weight, discard unnecessary attire, or anything that might impede their progress. They proudly display their official numbers, their identity openly visible, and they’re ready to race.
As Christians, God expects us to embrace a new life and a new lifestyle. So, we are to live as spiritual marathon runners. In this race of faith, we must cast off any weights and hindrances that could impede our walk with Christ. Following in the footsteps of Christ is integral to the Christian lifestyle; it is inseparable from the Christian lifestyle. Furthermore, to stay on course, we must ensure that our focus remains unwaveringly on Him.
Likewise, we must ensure that our identity as the ‘salt of the earth’ and ‘light of the world’ (Matthew 5:13-14) is visible for everyone to see. Our light must remain on the lamp stand so that it can give light for the people to see.
Colossians 3:1-2 (MSG) admonishes us: “So, if you’re serious about living this new resurrection life with Christ, act like it. Pursue the things over which Christ presides. Don’t shuffle along, eyes to the ground, absorbed with the things right in front of you. Look up and be alert to what is going on around Christ—that’s where the action is. See things from his perspective.”
If you are serious about your union with Christ and truly ready for the truth of the gospel, then mere profession won’t suffice. You must live it out with unwavering dedication. It’s time to stop playing the field and get serious about living the kind of life God expects from you. Rather than playing on the fringes of faith, let us wholeheartedly embrace the life that God expects us to live.
In conclusion, living the resurrection life in Christ is not a casual endeavour; it’s a passionate pursuit. Just as marathon runners fix their eyes on the finish line, we must remain steadfast in our focus on Christ. Let us discard anything that hinders us and press forward with determination, for our race of faith leads to the eternal treasures above.
