TODAY'S DEVOTIONAL PASSAGE Please read Colossians 1:15–23 "And through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether on earth or in heaven, making peace by the blood of his cross." Colossians 1:20 (ESV) DEVOTIONAL by Stephanie Reloj Imagine a beautiful tapestry that has become torn and faded over time. A skilled weaver carefully restores it, mending the tears and restoring its vibrant colors. This mirrors Christ's work with creation. Through His sacrifice on the cross, Christ restores and reconciles all things, healing the brokenness and bringing everything back to harmony. In Colossians 1:15-23, the apostle Paul begins by declaring Jesus as the image of the invisible God and the firstborn of all creation. This highlights Jesus' divine nature and His authority over all that exists. Everything in heaven and on earth was created by Him, through Him, and for Him. Verse 20 is particularly pivotal: "and through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether on earth or in heaven, making peace by the blood of his cross." Here, Paul reveals that Christ's death on the cross is not just about human redemption but encompasses the entire...

TODAY'S DEVOTIONAL PASSAGE Please read Colossians 1:15–23 "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 1:18–20 DEVOTIONAL by Stephanie Reloj Imagine a symphony orchestra with each musician playing their part perfectly under the guidance of a skilled conductor. The conductor ensures harmony, timing, and unity, bringing out the best in each musician to create a beautiful masterpiece. Similarly, Christ, as the head of the church, orchestrates the life and mission of His body, the church, ensuring unity, purpose, and growth. In Colossians 1:15–23, Paul highlights the supremacy of Christ not only over creation but also over the new creation—the church. Paul declares, "He is the head of the body, the church" (Colossians 1:18). Just as a head directs and controls the body, Christ directs and guides His church....

TODAY'S DEVOTIONAL PASSAGE Please read Colossians 1:15–23 "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." Colossians 1:15–17 DEVOTIONAL by Stephanie Reloj In our modern world, we often marvel at the intricacies of nature, the vastness of the universe, and the complexity of life. We are fascinated by the power and beauty of creation. However, it's essential to remember that behind all these wonders is the Creator, Christ Himself, who not only brought everything into existence but also sustains and holds it all together. This truth is powerfully presented by the Apostle Paul in his letter to the Colossians, where he exalts Christ as the head of all creation. Paul begins by proclaiming that Christ is "the image of the invisible God" (Colossians 1:15). This statement echoes John's description: "No one has ever seen God; the only God, who is at the...

TODAY'S DEVOTIONAL PASSAGE Please read Matthew 28:16–20 And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age." Matthew 28:20b DEVOTIONAL by Stephanie Reloj Imagine learning to ride a bicycle for the first time. Most of us had a parent or a friend by our side, holding the seat, offering words of encouragement, and steadying us as we wobbled. Their presence was a source of comfort and confidence. Even when we doubted our ability to balance and pedal at the same time, knowing they were right there made all the difference. They didn't let go until they were sure we could ride on our own, and even then, they stayed close, ready to help if we needed them. The promise of God's presence with His people is a thread that runs throughout the Bible. From the call of Abraham to the Great Commission, God assures His followers that they are never alone in their mission. This assurance is vividly captured in Matthew 28:16-20, where Jesus commissions His disciples to take the Gospel to all nations and promises to be with them always. Like Abraham, we may not see the immediate fulfillment of God's promises, but we can trust that His plans are...

TODAY'S DEVOTIONAL PASSAGE 16 Now the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain to which Jesus had directed them. 17 And when they saw him they worshiped him, but some doubted. 18 And Jesus came and said to them, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19 Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age." Matthew 28:16–20 DEVOTIONAL by Stephanie Reloj Faith and doubt often coexist in our spiritual journey. We may find ourselves questioning and unsure, especially when faced with significant challenges or uncertainties. These doubts can make us feel unworthy or incapable of fulfilling God's calling. However, the Bible shows us that doubt does not disqualify us from being used by God. In Matthew 28, after His resurrection, Jesus meets His eleven disciples on a mountain in Galilee. This moment, known as the Great Commission, is crucial in the New Testament. When the disciples saw Jesus, they worshiped Him, but some...