Craig Cooper

Imagine a dark winter night, stepping into a house where not a single light glows. The air feels heavy, the shadows are deep. But then, you reach for a switch, and a string of Christmas lights flickers on, transforming the room into a warm, inviting haven. This reflects the promise of Isaiah 9:6-7, where a child is born to bring sparkling hope, illuminating every life and home that welcomes Him.

In the 8th century BC, the prophet Isaiah addressed a people buried in gloom. Judah and Israel faced chaos; their idolatry and dependence on foreign alliances brought judgment, as described in Isaiah 8. However, chapter 9 shifts from despair to bright hope, announcing a child who would transform everything. Isaiah 9:6-7 states, “For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of his government and peace there will be no end, on the throne of David and over his kingdom, to establish it and uphold it with justice and with righteousness from this time forth and forevermore. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will do this.” This child, Jesus Christ, is the ultimate fulfillment of this prophecy, the star of hope breaking through a restless world.

This child, born to humanity yet reigning as God’s Son, embodies divine humility and hope. John 1:14 reveals, “And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth.” Just as the Star of Bethlehem guided the Magi across deserts to worship the newborn King, Christ’s hope shines as an eternal beacon, leading us through despair and sin to redemption. This Christmas, we are called to receive Him, allowing His light to ignite hope in our hearts and transform us from selfishness and fear into lives of love and grace.

Isaiah’s prophecy continues, proclaiming this child as the King whose reign illuminates every home. His titles, Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace, reveal His divine wisdom, power, eternal care, and the ability to bring genuine peace. Jesus’ names are living truth. He defeats death, becoming the great light for all in darkness. As He said in John 8:12, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” When we allow Christ’s reign to shape our homes through prayer, forgiveness, and love, they become beacons of hope. I have seen this in my own home. Growing up, my family was caring but not centered on Christ. When my parents and brother accepted Him during my high school years, our home transformed, radiating hope that attracted others seeking His light.

Finally, Isaiah assures us that this hope shines forever, upheld by “the zeal of the Lord of hosts.” Jesus’ rule fulfills the promise of an everlasting Davidic king (2 Samuel 7:12-16), unshaken by the world’s chaos. His finished work on the cross and His future return, as seen in Revelation 21:3-5, secure an eternal kingdom of justice and righteousness. Like a brightly lit house on a dark night, visible from afar, Christ’s light draws others to Him. This Christmas, we are invited to trust in this promise, allowing His hope to shine through our lives.

Isaiah 9:6-7 reveals Jesus as the child who illuminates our hearts and homes with eternal hope. This Christmas, make your life and home a place of sparkling hope by welcoming Jesus, letting Him kindle hope in your heart. Share His love and message with others. Trusting His promise of peace in a restless world. Imagine communities filled with such homes, their combined light creating cities that shine against the darkness.

I hope each of us will embrace Romans 15:13, “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.” This season, let’s kindle expectation in our hearts. Let’s share Christ’s divine light to transform our world with His everlasting love. Soli Deo Gloria (Glory to God Alone)!

There is real power in thankfulness. Thankfulness is an attitude of gratitude for God’s blessings. God uses it to transform our perspective and bring joy. We are called in 1 Thessalonians 5:18 to “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” Thankfulness aligns our hearts with God’s will, bringing peace and strength.

Thankfulness shifts our perspective. When we begin counting our blessings, God guides us in shifting our focus from what we lack to an abundance mindset. This change promotes contentment. Even during trials, adopting an attitude of thankfulness strengthens our trust in God’s sovereignty. Paul encourages us in Philippians 4:6-7, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” To worry is to doubt God’s ability to help. Instead, we are advised to tell God our needs. We thank God for past blessings, knowing that He will answer our requests. God then grants us His peace that guards our emotions and thoughts. The image depicts a squad of soldiers protecting a town. He protects our hearts and minds.

Thankfulness strengthens relationships. When we show gratitude to others, we reflect God’s love, which in turn fosters a sense of community and unity. Thankfulness leads to humility and a greater appreciation for others, promoting unity. Paul writes, “And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful” (Colossians 3:15). The peace of God rules in our hearts when we are fully surrendered to His will, and as a result, our entire being is united in obedience to Him. Christ’s reconciling work makes this obedience possible. This work of God not only impacts our personal lives but also enables our fellowship with others to glorify Him, bless us, and, in turn, bless others.

Thankfulness even fuels worship. As our gratitude deepens, our worship deepens by acknowledging God’s goodness and provision. Growing in our ability to walk in thankfulness leads to a lifestyle of praising God, regardless of circumstances. The psalmist directs us to “Enter His gates with thanksgiving, and His courts with praise! Give thanks to Him; bless His name” (Psalm 100:4). Here, we are given a picture of corporate worship extending to the community of believers, with thanksgiving celebrated collectively.

The power of thankfulness is shown in a transformed perspective, stronger relationships, and a fueling of our worship. This should motivate each of us to build a habit of gratitude, which helps us experience God’s peace and joy. As we gather this week, let us do so with great thankfulness, growing in our journey of gratitude. “Oh give thanks to the Lord, for He is good, for His steadfast love endures forever” (Psalm 107:1)! Soli Deo Gloria (Glory to God Alone)!

Imagine the moments before the big game. The star quarterback isn’t obsessing over stats or replaying highlight reels. He’s in the locker room, methodically gearing up—strapping on shoulder pads for protection, lacing cleats for stability, securing a helmet to guard his mind, and slipping into the team jersey that declares his unity with his squad. But without the fire of passion and trust in his teammates, that gear is just fabric. It’s love and dedication that transform equipment into empowerment, turning a player into a vital part of a victorious team. In Colossians 3:12–4:18, Paul reveals God’s playbook for the new life in Christ, showing us how to suit up in love, equipping us with virtues and practical plays to live as part of God’s kingdom team.

Paul starts by urging us to layer on protective virtues (Colossians 3:12-14). As God’s chosen, holy, and loved ones, we’re called to wear compassion, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience, with love holding these qualities together in perfect harmony. These aren’t optional accessories but the essential uniform of our new identity in Christ. Compassion, for example, originates from God’s heart, enabling us to forgive as Christ forgave us and shielding us from resentment. Picture a lineman suiting up without pads—one hit could end his season. Likewise, these virtues shield us from isolation and offense, helping us stand strong for our fellow believers. We must prayerfully assess our spiritual armor to make sure we’re producing these godly qualities. As Vince Lombardi said, “Build for your team a feeling of oneness, of dependence on one another and of strength to be derived by unity.” In Christ, love is the glue that transforms individuals into an unbreakable offensive line.

Next, Paul emphasizes letting Christ’s playbook rule our huddle (Colossians 3:15-17). The peace of Christ serves as an internal umpire, resolving disputes and promoting unity in a divided world. His Word, dwelling richly within us, serves as our living playbook, guiding decisions and fueling gratitude. Imagine a quarterback in a crucial fourth-quarter drive. He doesn’t freelance; he trusts the playbook and the unity of the huddle. Likewise, Christ’s peace referees our hearts, His Word coaches our choices, and thankfulness drives our actions, turning chaos into a touchdown celebration. Charles Spurgeon captured this: “The peace of God is not the absence of problems, but the presence of Christ ruling in the heart, binding us in thankful song and deed.” By surrendering to Christ’s peace and Word, we live for His glory, making a kingdom impact.

Paul then shifts to practical advice, urging us to run the plays in our positions (Colossians 3:18-4:6). Whether as spouses, parents, workers, or neighbors, we are to live out our roles with Christ-centered love. In family, work, or witnessing, every position is essential, like a center whose snap starts the offense. Mishandle it, and the drive stalls. Paul’s household code, filled with Christ’s love, changes relationships, while his call to persistent prayer and gracious speech helps us reach outsiders wisely. Billy Graham encouraged us to pursue what is pure and good in every relationship, reflecting the character of Christ. We need to review our roles, ensuring they honor Him, and trust God to open doors for the gospel.

Finally, Paul rallies the kingdom team (Colossians 4:7-18), highlighting a diverse group—Tychicus, Onesimus, Epaphras, and others—who are united in Christ despite cultural differences. His instruction to Archippus to complete his ministry and his reminder of his chains show that no obstacle can stop the gospel. Like a team where every role, from water boy to coach, contributes to victory, the church flourishes through community. Hebrews 10:24–25 urges us to motivate one another to love and good works, emphasizing the importance of fellowship. As believers, we must do our part, uplift others, and pray together to fulfill Christ’s calling.

Picture the final whistle of the Super Bowl—players mob the quarterback in a joyful dogpile, united in victory. That’s the gospel game. Christ, our Captain, dresses us in love, weaving our virtues into a kingdom dynasty where every forgiven fumble and relational play echoes in eternity. To those yet to believe, Jesus offers His forgiveness and life; confess Him as Lord, and you’ll be saved. To believers, wear your uniform boldly. Suit up in love daily, and watch God work through you as part of His kingdom team. Soli Deo Gloria (Glory to God Alone)!

Over the years, as a Christian and a Christian pastor, I have been accused of being either too political or not political enough. This doesn’t surprise me, since people often judge us based on what they want us to be. The real challenge is to genuinely be who God calls us to be. Our call is to keep in step with the Spirit (Galatians 5:25).

Often, we believers are accused of being too political when we simply speak on Christian values that have implications for politics. If I were the enemy, I would convince believers that our views should not be spoken because it might offend others. Furthermore, I would convince them that they should not get involved in politics at all. I would even use titles such as Christian Nationalist to silence them. But, we believers, for the cause of Christ and the betterment of others and our society, are called to call evil evil and good good.

Christian Nationalism is often seen as a problematic mix of Christianity with American identity or government power. It can be viewed as a cultural system that aims to promote Christianity through government or to equate being a good American with being Christian. If this is what is meant by Christian Nationalism, I do not want to be associated with it. Nonetheless, believers should influence society. Evidence of this can be found throughout the time God’s people were in exile, with accounts showing how the Jews were involved in politics, sometimes not by choice, but God used them to make a difference (i.e., Daniel). In the New Testament, from Peter to Paul, we see examples of believers standing before political leaders, standing on the gospel, and witnessing to its truth. The term “Christian Nationalism” is often misused as a strawman to unfairly label orthodox Christians who engage in civic life or hold biblical convictions. I encourage Christians to evaluate issues biblically, advocating for principled civic engagement without compromising faith or falling into political traps that distort the gospel.

As a Christian in America, I want my nation to know Christ and treat each other in a way that honors the Lord. I hope our society will have laws aligned with biblical principles. I vote, engage others in conversation, and preach the gospel, hoping to influence our local, state, and national direction. Christian brothers and sisters in Iran want the same for their country. The church in China desires and works toward seeing the same change there. Believers worldwide want this for the nations where they live. Just as I pray for the Spirit to use the disinfectant of God’s truth to remove the dark spots in my soul, I pray the same for my home, neighborhood, city, state, nation, and the world. I pray that God’s kingdom will come, and his will be done on earth as it is in heaven (Matthew 6:10).

So I, for one, will continue to stand on God’s truth and pray to our Lord to grant me humility, boldness, and love as I share His life-giving truth with others. I will not be passive, nor will I be silent. I will value life from conception to the grave. I will speak out against life-altering surgeries on minors. I will defend the God-given rights of all, even those I disagree with. I will stand for equality by treating everyone equally and providing identical opportunities and resources, regardless of individual differences or needs. I will not only identify as Christian; I will be Christian. I have been saved by Christ, am being changed by Him, following Him, and on a mission with Him, and I will not cease to call others to do the same.

Call me what you will. I serve for an audience of one, and I encourage you to do the same. As Paul declared, so shall I personally affirm, “I do not account my life of any value nor as precious to myself, if only I may finish my course and the ministry that I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God” (Acts 20:24). For others doing the same, know you are not alone, and no matter what others may call you, I call you brother, I call you sister. I call all believers to do the same. Soli Deo Gloria (Glory to God Alone)!

Imagine stepping onto the gridiron, the roar of the crowd echoing in your ears, the weight of the helmet on your head, and the determination in your heart to push through every play and sprint toward the end zone. In football, true grit isn’t about flashy moves or self-imposed training rituals. It’s about the inner strength that comes from teamwork, coaching, and a relentless pursuit of victory. Similarly, in the spiritual realm, when we speak of holiness, we mean that spirituality flows from Christ alone, empowering us to live holy lives without the burden of empty rules or rituals. This is true grit holiness.

Keith Drury, a mentor of mine, described holiness as Christlikeness! Let’s look at Colossians 2:16-23 to see how Paul guides us toward this Christ-centered holiness. The passage says: “Therefore let no one pass judgment on you in questions of food and drink, or with regard to a festival or a new moon or a Sabbath. These are a shadow of the things to come, but the substance belongs to Christ. Let no one disqualify you, insisting on asceticism and worship of angels, going on in detail about visions, puffed up without reason by his sensuous mind, and not holding fast to the Head, from whom the whole body, nourished and knit together through its joints and ligaments, grows with a growth that is from God. If with Christ you died to the elemental spirits of the world, why, as if you were still alive in the world, do you submit to regulations— ‘Do not handle, Do not taste, Do not touch’ (referring to things that all perish as they are used)—according to human precepts and teachings? These have indeed an appearance of wisdom in promoting self-made religion and asceticism and severity to the body, but they are of no value in stopping the indulgence of the flesh.”

Paul begins by challenging us to reject judgment based on shadows and embrace the substance of Christ. In Colossians 2:16–17, he warns against false teachers who imposed Jewish ceremonial laws as measures of spirituality. These “shadows” pointed forward to Christ but were never meant to be the goal. This critiques any form of legalism that prioritizes outward appearances over inward transformation by the Holy Spirit, emphasizing that holiness is a heart issue empowered by God’s grace. Consider a football team fixated on pre-game rituals like wearing lucky socks or eating specific meals, believing they guarantee victory. Now compare this to a team filled with true grit that comes from the coach’s strategy and team unity, not superstitions. Christ’s substance, His being our Savior and Lord, frees us from ritualistic judgments. Mike Ditka, former NFL coach, shares this insight: “Success isn’t measured by money or power or social rank. Success is measured by your discipline and inner peace.” Let me encourage all of us to identify and let go of any personal “shadow rituals,” like rigid routines without heart, that we’ve used as a spiritual crutch. Instead, focus each day on Christ’s substance through simple acts like reading Scripture, reminding yourself that holiness is about a relationship with Him, not rules. Perhaps share with a friend how embracing Christ over “shadows” has brought freedom into your life.

Paul continues by encouraging us to guard against being disqualified and to hold fast to Christ. In Colossians 2:18–19, he exposes mystical or ascetic teachings that inflate egos while dividing believers from Christ. “Let no one disqualify you” means not to be deceived or robbed by accepting wrong ideas about Christian living. These false teachers boasted of secret knowledge, but all they had was spiritual pride. Even angels cannot bring us to God; salvation is only in Christ, who surpasses all heavenly powers. Christ is the Head; only by staying connected to Him can we be nourished and united through love. Our unity with Christ allows us to grow spiritually, both personally and as a church. Tony Dungy shares his experience during the 2006 Indianapolis Colts season, where, after personal tragedies and team setbacks, he relied on faith and unity instead of self-imposed pressures, leading to a Super Bowl victory. His perseverance demonstrated grit rooted in divine guidance and living in the right community. Don’t be misled by false teachings; stay rooted in Christ and live in genuine community with fellow believers. Dungy admits: “I don’t have the strength or wisdom to get through a single day without guidance and grace from God.” Reflect on areas in your life where over-spiritualization disconnects you from community or Christ. Commit to engaging with your church family to stay “knit together,” and begin each day with a prayer of dependence on God’s guidance, not your own plans or efforts.

Paul concludes by urging us to reject worldly rules and pursue holiness without relying on self-made religion. In Colossians 2:20–23, those who have died with Christ are freed from sin and are not bound to follow false teachers’ regulations like “Do not handle, Do not taste, Do not touch.” These focus only on outward self-denial and originate from people, not God. Following them fosters self-pride and is unhelpful in stopping fleshly indulgence. Without a heart change, we can follow rules but still disobey God. The Bible highlights sanctification as victory over sin through Christ’s power inside us, not harsh physical discipline. Consider a coaching staff enforcing arbitrary rules, such as “no water during practice,” to build “toughness,” which only exhausts players without developing actual endurance. Genuine grit comes from proper training and rest under wise leadership, just as Christ’s grace enables holiness beyond mere self-denial. Reject worldly rules and pursue holiness in Christ. Dungy shares how Christ has impacted him: “People look at me and see a calm, cool guy on the sidelines, and I want them to know that my Christian faith affects my coaching and everything I do.” Reflect on self-made rules in your spiritual life and replace them with practices centered on Christ. Embrace your “death with Christ” by confessing worldly indulgences and seeking the Holy Spirit’s power for real transformation. Ask yourself: Is this rule helping me love God and others more, or just creating self-imposed severity?

Let me encourage us to examine areas where we’ve relied on rituals, rules, or self-effort for holiness. Let’s reconnect with Christ through prayer, Scripture, and Christian community. Surrender daily to the Holy Spirit. Picture a seasoned quarterback, battered and bruised in the fourth quarter of a championship game. He inspires his team not through harsh self-discipline or empty pep talks but by drawing on the wisdom of his coach and the bond with his teammates. With one final, grit-filled drive, they secure the victory. Our spiritual journey, rooted in true grit holiness (Christlikeness), culminates in Christ’s victory, empowering us to finish strong, free from man-made burdens, and set ablaze by His grace. Remember: True grit holiness isn’t about grinding through rules on life’s field; it’s about drawing strength from Christ, our ultimate Victor. Release the shadows, hold tightly to Christ, and run the race with the perseverance He provides. May we believers be empowered to live holy, not by our might nor by our power, but by His Spirit (Zechariah 4:6). Soli Deo Gloria (Glory to God Alone)!

Imagine the tension in a packed stadium during the Super Bowl. The offense is down by six points with seconds left on the clock. The defense is impenetrable with a wall of linebackers and safeties ready to crush any advance. But then, the quarterback calls the perfect play, fakes a handoff, and threads the needle with a pass that breaks through the defense for a touchdown, then gets the extra point for the win. The crowd erupts!

In our spiritual lives, we face a similar showdown. Worldly philosophies, empty traditions, and legalistic rules form a formidable defense, trying to keep us enslaved and prevent us from living in freedom. But Jesus Christ has already broken through with His ultimate victory on the cross. Paul explores in Colossians 2:8-15 how believers are freed from these tactics through Christ’s triumph.

Paul begins our passage by warning us to beware of deceptive plays (Colossians 2:8). In the church at Colossae, false teachers were blending Greek philosophy, Jewish legalism, and mystical elements (referred to as “elemental spirits”) to undermine the sufficiency of Christ. Paul warns believers not to be “taken captive” like prisoners of war by these empty deceptions, which are rooted in human wisdom rather than divine truth. This verse sets the stage for the passage, urging vigilance against anything that distracts from Christ-centered living. Paul is not opposed to careful philosophical reasoning, but he criticizes the use of false reasoning to deceive. Think of a football defense using trick plays, like a disguised blitz or a fake coverage, to confuse the offense and force a turnover. Similarly, worldly tactics masquerade as wisdom but lead to spiritual fumbles, trapping us in doubt and self-reliance. We believers must be cautious of the deceptive schemes of the world, the flesh, and the devil. As theologian F.F. Bruce noted: “The Colossians were in danger of being carried off as spoil by an alien power, disguised as intellectual enlightenment but in reality hostile to the gospel.”

Paul continues by reminding us that we are empowered by Christ (Colossians 2:9-20). He counters the false teachings by affirming Christ’s full deity (“the whole fullness of deity dwells bodily”) and His supreme authority over all powers. Believers are “filled” in Him, meaning we lack nothing spiritually. Christ completes us, making us participants in His rule and freeing us from needing supplemental philosophies or rituals. This emphasizes Christ’s sufficiency against hollow alternatives. Consider a star quarterback: In football, the star quarterback isn’t just a player; he’s the leader with unmatched vision, arm strength, and decision-making that elevates the entire team. Christ is our ultimate leader, both on and off the field, being fully divine and authoritative. He fills us with His power, so we don’t chase after “scout team” ideas from the world. We believers are empowered by Christ, who, being God, is all we need. In Christ, you have all you need for life and godliness. Nothing is missing in Him that requires extra human wisdom.

Paul now instructs us in God’s winning strategy for transformation (Colossians 2:1-12). Using metaphors of circumcision (a Jewish rite symbolizing covenant and removal of sin) and baptism, Paul describes a spiritual transformation: believers die to their old sinful nature (“putting off the body of the flesh”) and are raised to new life through faith in God’s power. Circumcision is used here as a figure of sanctification. “The circumcision of Christ,” which is not physical but spiritual, involves a real cleansing from sin, a “putting off the body of the sins of the flesh.” Baptism is a symbol of our appropriating Christ’s death and resurrection by faith. It is an outward sign of an inward work of God in the life of a believer. This isn’t about physical acts but about an inner reality achieved through Christ, freeing us from legalistic demands and uniting us with His resurrection. Picture a football team shedding their worn-out practice jerseys for fresh game-day uniforms before the big game. It signifies a fresh start and readiness to perform. In Christ, we’re spiritually “re-uniformed,” buried with Him in baptism and raised to participate in His victorious league, no longer bound by the old rules of legalism. We believers are transformed by God’s strategy, fulfilled in Christ and through our cooperation with Him, and nothing else. N.T. Wright explains: “Baptism isn’t just a symbol; it’s the enactment of dying and rising with Christ, breaking the power of the old life and launching us into the new.”

Paul concludes our passage by celebrating the ultimate victory (Colossians 2:13-15). Paul vividly describes our former state as “dead in trespasses” but now made alive through forgiveness. The “record of debt” (like a legal IOU) is canceled and nailed to the cross, disarming spiritual rulers and authorities in a public triumph, akin to a Roman victory parade. The devil and his angels did their worst to Christ when He died on the cross, but He rose again, making a public spectacle of them and their inability to conquer. This climaxes the passage, showing how Christ’s cross defeats both personal sin and cosmic powers, granting total freedom. Envision the final whistle in that Super Bowl game: The winning team hoists the trophy, while the defeated defense slinks off in shame. Christ’s cross is our trophy moment. He nailed our debts there, disarmed the enemy’s schemes, and paraded His victory, so we can live without the weight of guilt or fear. We believers can confidently celebrate the victorious freedom we have in Christ. Charles Spurgeon proclaimed: “The cross is the place where God turned the tables on Satan, making what seemed like defeat into eternal triumph.”

Just as that game-winning touchdown breaks through the defense and secures the victory, Christ’s work on the cross has shattered every barrier of worldly deceit and legalism in our lives. We’re not just survivors; we’re champions in His kingdom, free to run the race with joy and purpose. Remember Super Bowl LI, where Tom Brady led the New England Patriots to a comeback, overcoming a 28-3 deficit and winning in overtime. As impressive as that comeback may be in football, Christ’s reversal is infinitely greater—the reversal of reversals, from the grave to glory. If you’re feeling held back by the world’s defenses today, remember that the victory is already yours in Him. Let’s live like the winners we are! Remember that Jesus has a breakthrough for you! Soli Deo Gloria (Glory to God Alone)!

In the swirling chaos of a world bombarded by endless notifications, societal expectations, and the relentless pursuit of success, a quiet voice echoes within: “What is the purpose of my life, and how does faith fit into it?” It’s a question that pierces through the noise, demanding answers amid deadlines, doubts, and distractions. Why did God make me? How can faith make my life better? These inquiries aren’t abstract philosophies; they’re lifelines for navigating the storms of identity and pressure.

Consider the biblical foundation: “So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them” (Genesis 1:27, ESV). You weren’t an accident, a random speck in the universe. God crafted you intentionally, imprinting His divine essence upon your soul. As Ephesians 2:10 declares, “For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them” (ESV). Your existence is a masterpiece, designed for a symphony of actions that reflect His love—helping the hurting, creating beauty, fostering justice. Rick Warren captures this essence: “You were born by his purpose and for his purpose.” Imagine a potter shaping clay; God formed you not for idle display but to carry His glory into the world, as Revelation 4:11 affirms: “Worthy are you, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for you created all things, and by your will they existed and were created” (ESV).

Yet, in a society pressuring us toward fleeting achievements—climbing corporate ladders, curating perfect social media feeds—purpose often feels elusive. Faith fits here as the compass, redirecting our gaze from chaos to clarity. It answers “Why did God make me?” by revealing you’re made for relationship with Him, to know His love and extend it. Billy Graham once said, “We are not here by chance; God put us here for a purpose, and the most important thing we can do is discover that purpose and commit ourselves to it.” Faith transforms existence from mere survival to significance, anchoring us in Jeremiah 29:11: “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope” (ESV).

How does faith make life better? It builds resilience, turning trials into triumphs. Picture a lone oak in a tempest—its roots delving deep into fertile soil, unyielding against winds that topple lesser trees. Faith is those roots, drawing from God’s unchanging truth. When societal pressures whisper you’re not enough, faith counters with Romans 8:28: “And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose” (ESV). It equips you to face anxiety, failure, or loss not with despair but hope. John Piper echoes this: “If you live gladly to make others glad in God, your life will be hard, your risks will be high, and your joy will be full.” Faith reframes daily experiences: a mundane job becomes a mission field, relationships deepen with grace, and chaos yields to eternal perspective.

C.S. Lewis wisely advised, “Aim at Heaven and you will get Earth ‘thrown in’: aim at Earth and you will get neither.” In embracing faith, you discover meaning that societal pressures can’t erode—a resilient framework where purpose isn’t self-made but God-given. Step into it: pray, serve, trust. Your life, woven into His grand narrative, becomes a beacon amid the turmoil, fulfilling the divine whisper that called you into being. Soli Deo Gloria (Glory to God Alone)!

Imagine a high school football team in the 1970s, torn apart by racial tensions and forced to integrate. In the movie “Remember the Titans”, based on a true story, black and white players start as bitter rivals, opponents both on and off the field, filled with hostility and alienation. But under Coach Herman Boone’s leadership, they endure a tough training camp, confront their prejudices, and learn to work as one team. What began as foes clashing in chaos turns into a championship team, united in purpose and victory. Just like those players, we once stood as spiritual opponents to God, but Christ’s work of reconciliation turns enemies into a winning team.

The Apostle Paul wrote Colossians around AD 60-62 while imprisoned in Rome, addressing a young church in Colossae threatened by false teaching that mixed Jewish legalism, Greek philosophy, and mysticism. These heresies diminished Christ’s supremacy, suggesting “secret knowledge” or ascetic practices were needed beyond the gospel. In chapter 1, Paul exalts Christ as the image of the invisible God and Creator of all things (vv. 15-20), then pivots to personal application in vv. 21-23. Here, he reminds believers of their dramatic shift from alienation to reconciliation, urging them to stay grounded in the simple, proclaimed gospel rather than human inventions. This passage underscores that Christ’s death is sufficient for victory, turning cosmic and personal hostility into peace and stability.

Through Christ’s victory on the cross, we are transformed from spiritual foes, who are alienated from God and hostile in our thoughts and actions, into unified teammates in His eternal formation. This reconciliation deeply grounds us in the gospel. As a result, it prepares us for a victorious season of faith where we remain holy, blameless, and steadfast.

Paul begins by describing our former state as spiritual foes: “And you, who once were alienated and hostile in mind, doing evil deeds” (Colossians 1:21). Before Christ, we were like players on the opposing team, separated from God’s playbook, rebellious in our thoughts, and destructive in our actions. This isn’t just a minor disagreement; it’s outright hostility because sin turns us into enemies of God’s holiness. In football terms, we’re not neutral spectators; we’re tackling against His purposes. As Paul writes in Ephesians 2:1–3, “And you were dead in the trespasses and sins in which you once walked, following the course of this world… and were by nature children of wrath.” We must recognize our pre-Christ state to appreciate the gospel’s power. Don’t downplay sin as a “fumble”; it’s full-on opposition leading to defeat.

We are reconciled through Christ’s victorious work: “…he has now reconciled in his body of flesh by his death” (Colossians 1:22a). Christ’s death is the ultimate game-winning play, absorbing the penalty, bridging the divide, and bringing peace where there was war. This divine cosmic play shifts the momentum forever. In Romans 5:10, Paul writes, “For if while we were enemies we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more… shall we be saved by his life.” God didn’t wait for us; He came to us. Embrace Christ’s work as a personal victory. A victory not earned by our performance but gifted through sacrifice, transforming foes into family. Tim Tebow shares, “Regardless of what happens, I still honor my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, because at the end of the day, that’s what’s important, win or lose.”

Believers are now positioned in God’s holy formation: “…in order to present you holy and blameless and above reproach before him” (Colossians 1:22b). We are set apart, forgiven, and unaccusable, like a team in perfect formation, ready for the snap, advancing God’s kingdom without past burdens. In 2 Corinthians 5:18-19, we read, “All this is from God, who through Christ reconciled us to himself… not counting their trespasses against them.” Live out this new identity, stepping into the huddle of grace. Tony Dungy notes, “Football is oneness in action… unity on display. Players come from different races and backgrounds,” even more true for believers in Christ.

Reconciliation requires perseverance: “if indeed you continue in the faith, stable and steadfast, not shifting from the hope of the gospel…” (Colossians 1:23). Like a team drilling fundamentals, stay grounded amid false teachings. In Ephesians 2:16, we read that Christ reconciles us “in one body through the cross, thereby killing the hostility.” Root yourself daily in Scripture, prayer, and community. Treat faith like you want to win.

Consider Jordan Kunaszyk’s testimony. Once idolizing football, he found true victory in Jesus, saying his life changed when he realized “football was my god—until I found Jesus.” Like switching teams mid-season, he went from foe to formation. We can as well.

If Christ can reconcile a divided locker room or a hostile heart, He can form you into His winning team. Step off the opponent’s sideline, ground yourself in the gospel, and run the race to victory! After all, through Christ’s victory on the cross, we are transformed from spiritual foes, alienated from God and hostile in our minds and deeds, into unified teammates in His eternal formation. Soli Deo Gloria (Glory to God Alone)!

In the world of football, certain athletes earn the title of MVP—Most Valuable Player—because of their remarkable talent and impact on the game. In 2000, Marshall Faulk of the St. Louis Rams earned that honor by rushing for over 1,300 yards, scoring 18 touchdowns, and adding 830 receiving yards. He was called the heart of “The Greatest Show on Turf,” a player who seemed to do it all. As impressive as those stats are, there is an MVP whose greatness eclipses any record on the field. Of course, I am speaking of Jesus Christ. In the game of life, there’s only one true MVP above all, and Colossians 1:15-20 presents Him as the Creator, sustainer, and reconciler of all things.

Paul begins by declaring Jesus as “the image of the invisible God” (v. 15). In the Greco-Roman world, the term used here for “image” meant a perfect representation, like a coin bearing the likeness of a king. However, the term’s fuller meaning implies manifestation. In other words, Jesus doesn’t merely reflect God; He is God in human form. This truth confronted the “Colossian heresy,” a false teaching influenced by Gnosticism that denied the full humanity of Christ because it rejected the idea that the divine could inhabit the material. The same error appears today in the belief that all roads lead to God, diminishing Christ’s unique role. But Paul makes it clear: Jesus is both fully God and fully human. If He were only human, He would be irrelevant to our understanding of God; if only God, He would be disconnected from human experience. You cannot have Christian principles without Christ, and, therefore, the validity of Christian principles depends on Christ and His authority. Think of a quarterback like Tom Brady, whose seven Super Bowl rings make him a legend; even so, his legacy fades with time. Christ’s victory is eternal, unmatched, and untouchable. As A.W. Tozer put it, “In Christ, we see God’s face, not a mirror dimly, but in radiant clarity.”

Paul then describes Christ as the Creator and sustainer of all things (vv. 16-17). Everything in heaven and on earth, whether visible or invisible, from galaxies to governments, was created by Him and for Him. Nothing exists apart from His will, and everything is held together by His power (Hebrews 1:3). Picture a football field where every blade of grass, every goalpost, and every player’s ability comes from one source. That’s Jesus, He designed the game of life and ensures it continues. He’s not simply an MVP on the field; He built the stadium, wrote the rulebook, and keeps the lights on. When we live for Him, we align with the Creator’s original purpose, finding meaning in His design.

Finally, Paul presents Christ as the head of the church and the reconciler of all things (vv. 18-20). The church exists because of Christ, depends on Him continually, and is energized by His life and power. To call Him the “head” means more than just giving Him top rank. It means that every part of the body draws its life and unity from Him. Apart from His life, death, and resurrection, the universe has no meaning. Through His blood, He brings peace between God and humanity, reversing the damage of sin. The greatest comeback in NFL history may be the Minnesota Vikings overcoming a 33-point deficit in 2022, but Christ’s victory over sin and death is infinitely greater. His resurrection launched a new creation, and all who are united to Him share in that life. The cross is the scoreboard of eternity, where Christ’s victory is final and forever.

In Colossians 1:15-20, Paul shows us that Jesus is not just the MVP of our personal lives but the champion of all creation. He is the image of God, the architect and sustainer of the universe, and the One who reconciles all things through His cross. In 2015, Russell Wilson, quarterback for the Seattle Seahawks, faced a crushing moment in Super Bowl XLIX. With seconds remaining, his interception at the goal line cost his team the championship. Afterward, Wilson said, “God is good all the time… I’m grateful for the opportunity to play this game.” Even in defeat, Wilson pointed to a greater purpose. That’s what it means to live for the MVP above all—Jesus Christ. We can live with hope and purpose even in defeat because our lives are anchored in His supremacy. Whether we’re winning or losing on life’s field, we can commit to making Him the center of our game plan, living for the One who created us, sustains us, and redeemed us. The ultimate victory is His, and when we follow Him, we share in it forever. Soli Dio Gloria (Glory to God Alone)!