The image of the invisible God
Today's focusJesus is the image of the invisible God, the one through whom and for whom all things were created, who holds all things together and reconciles all things by his cross.
Read
15Who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature: 16For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him: 17And he is before all things, and by him all things consist. 18And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence. 19For it pleased the Father that in him should all fulness dwell; 20And, having made peace through the blood of his cross, by him to reconcile all things unto himself; by him, I say, whether they be things in earth, or things in heaven.
Reflection
It can be difficult to feel close to a God we cannot see. Yet this passage brings a beautiful assurance: Jesus is the "image of the invisible God." To know Jesus is to know the Father. He is not merely a teacher; he is the one by whom "all things were created," including everything in heaven and on earth. Whether you look at the vast stars or the life around you, Jesus is the source and the purpose of it all. He is "before all things," and right now, "by him all things consist." He is the strength holding your life and the whole world together.
Because "all fulness" dwells in him, Jesus has the power to mend what is broken. He is the "head of the body," leading his people with authority and love. Through "the blood of his cross," he has "made peace" and worked to "reconcile all things" to God. This means that no matter how distant you may feel, Jesus has paved the way for you to be at peace with your Creator. He has the preeminence over every power and every struggle you face today.
AI-written reflection on the passage above. Let Scripture itself be the main thing.
Reflect
If Jesus is the clearest picture of what God is like, what does that tell you about God's heart toward you?
Pray
Lord Jesus, you are the image of the invisible God and the one who holds all things together. Hold my life together today. Help me know God better by knowing you.