Someone has said, “You may be only one person in the world, but you may be the world to one person.” (original source unknown)
Though in relation to a perspective of the masses in the world we might consider ourselves insignificant, we are significant to someone. And hopefully we acknowledge those who are greatly significant to us by living in a way to help them know they are. Though one person, to those who know us we are not just another body moving about but are known and loved for the individual we are.
As we ponder this, let us also consider the significance we have to Jesus. In His parables of the lost sheep, the lost coin, and the lost son (Luke 15:3-32), Jesus clearly illustrated the value of one individual. And to understand that while we were still sinners He died or us (Romans 5:8), how are we responding to such love? Has Jesus — as reflected in the Hymn by Will L. Thompson — become all the world to us? That hymn begins, “Jesus is all the world to me, My life, my joy, my all; He is my strength from day to day – Without Him I would fall.”
To Paul, Christ had become everything to Him. (i.e. Philippians 3:8; Galatians 2:20) Therefore, as he pressed on even through trials he could declare. . .
“(20) as it is my eager expectation and hope that I will not be at all ashamed, but that with full courage now as always Christ will be honored in my body, whether by life or by death. (21) For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.” (Philippians 1:20-21 ESV)
Encouraging such a focus in others, Paul urged in his letter to Christians at Colossae. . .
“(1)If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. (2) Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth. (3) For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. (4) When Christ who is your life appears, then you also will appear with him in glory.” (Colossians 3:1-4 ESV)
Jesus gave His life desiring to draw us into an abiding and fruitful relationship with Him in life and death; a never ending relationship! (Romans 14:8-9) It is in Christ that God has blessed us “with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places.” (Ephesians 1:3) Therefore, being drawn out of the world and into Him, may He remain all the world to us as His greatest blessings are truly out of this world!
Have a great day PRESSING ON IN CHRIST!
Carl
