Lenten Reader | Day 19

March 26th, 2025

All Things

The Son is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. For in him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through him and for him. He is before all things, and in him all things hold together. And he is the head of the body, the church; he is the beginning and the firstborn from among the dead, so that in everything he might have the supremacy. For God was pleased to have all his fullness dwell in him, and through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether things on earth or things in heaven, by making peace through his blood, shed on the cross.

Colossians 1:15-20

That is a lot, isn't it? A lot to take in. To understand. To believe in and submit to. It takes faith (the verb).

This attempt will certainly not do justice to the scriptural significance of what the apostle Paul is trying to convey. One could sum it up like this: Jesus Christ is EVERYTHING. He is supreme over all things. He created all things, and we are included in those things for a relationship with Him. But can we truly comprehend the magnitude and implications of this passage without faith?

Growing up my sister was into Star Trek, Star Wars, anything science fiction. I never was. If it is sci-fi or fantasy that requires suspending reality or logic to entertain make-believe or some fantasy, count me out. Give me a good documentary, and I am set. I guess I was born a left hemisphere type of guy. My brain says show me – prove it. My sister lands on the right side – imagination.

I am fully aware that relying on reason has often been an impediment in fully accepting God's word or His direction for my life. Anyone else? Thankfully, my lived experience has also informed me that I rarely find clarity, direction, or understanding in my head alone. Proverbs encourages us to lean not on our own understanding but trust in Him with all of our heart and that his thoughts are higher than my thoughts. God knew we would overthink things.

So yes, it is a lot to take in sometimes, but our Lord has provided us an easily accessible tool in our spiritual toolbox. A powerful "force" indeed. A source that bridges the gap for lefties like me and all of us: FAITH. The bridge from doubt to trust. It never fails to shut down the noise of doubt that interferes with His messages. It is like God's noise cancelling headphones. Let's use it more. May that “force” be with you today.

Jeff Tatman