For he [the Father] has rescued us from the kingdom of darkness and transferred us into the Kingdom of his dear Son, who purchased our freedom and forgave our sins. - Colossians 1:13-14 NLT
These verses are packed with good stuff about what God has done for us through Jesus. One word that really stands out to me is “transferred.” The Father has transferred me into the kingdom of Jesus. It’s already a done deal. I am part of Jesus’ kingdom right now. I am already a citizen of heaven.
But we are citizens of heaven, where the Lord Jesus Christ lives. And we are eagerly waiting for him to return as our Savior. - Philippians 3:20 NLT
Sometimes I look l around and am tempted to get discouraged. Life can be so hard, and the world can seem so dark. I just want to be done with the fight and go home to Jesus. Colossians 1:13-14 remind me that I am not trapped in the darkness. Even when I feel surrounded by darkness, I need to remember that I have the light of the world. The darkness of sin can’t harm me because He has redeemed me and rescued me.
So, while I’m here in this world, I need to remember that I’m no longer of this world. I must not fret about the darkness but live in the light, as a citizen of heaven. I want to be a good representative of my king, Jesus. (John 17:14-15, 2 Corinthians 5:20, Philippians 1:27a)
Living for Jesus can seem overwhelming at times but remembering that I’m not alone helps. I have the Spirit with me, in me, to give me courage. And I have my brothers and sisters, all the other citizens of Jesus’ kingdom, to remind me who we are in Jesus when everything seems so hard. Thank the Father for enabling me to share in Jesus’ light!
May you be filled with joy, giving thanks to the Father, who has enabled you to share in the saints' inheritance in the light. - Colossians 1:11b-12 CSB
Think About:
Have you been transferred from darkness into Jesus' kingdom?
What helps you live as a citizen of heaven?
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