Ever attend an elaborate breakfast buffet that was a feast for the eyes as well as the appetite? Perhaps a kaleidoscope of sparkling fruit grabbed your attention first. Then you noticed the fresh breads of all shapes and sizes overflowing from broad baskets. And last, large chafing dishes displayed scrambled eggs, sausage, and French toast.
Just imagining the scene makes me want to be there! But that’s not enough. Someone who only observes such a display receives no benefit from the bounty. She has to partake in order to be fully satisfied.
Paul tells us in Colossians 2:10, “You have been given fullness in Christ.”
But there’s no benefit from his bountiful goodness if we don’t partake.
Just how do we do that–partake of the fullness in Christ? It’s one thing to talk about the concrete experience of participating in a buffet. You fill up a plate, sit down at a table, and eat. Simple!
It’s another matter to understand an abstract concept like “partaking of the fullness of Christ.” Here’s one view:
The fullness of Christ includes the fullness of his character, the fullness of his blessings, and the fullness of his promises.
Are you feeling empty, weak, or deficient? Come to Christ, to “the fullness of him who fills everything in every way” (Ephesians 1:23). Nothing is missing; nothing is left out. He is everything we need–everything that has to do with value and meaning in life, everything that has to do with joy, peace, and fulfillment.
I’m picturing a buffet, laid out for us by Jesus. But instead of fruit, bread, and egg dishes, I see attributes, blessings, and promises. Just as we fill our plates with delectable things at a buffet, we can fill our minds with everything exquisite about our Savior.
Here’s a sampler platter of…
…Christ’s attributes:
- His constant presence (Matthew 28:20).
- His tender compassion (Matthew 9:36).
- His kindness and attentiveness as our Good Shepherd (John 10:14).
…Christ’s blessings:
- The precious gift of eternal life (Romans 6:23).
- Provision of everything we need (Matthew 6:31-33).
- Peaceful rest from fear and worry (Matthew 11:28-30).
…Christ’s promises of:
- Endless possibilities , because everything is possible with God (Mark 9:23).
- Wisdom and guidance through the Holy Spirit (John 14:16-17, 26).
- Companionship with the King of the universe (John 14:23).
Chances are these are not astonishing new revelations to you, any more than berries, cinnamon buns, or sausage are never-tried foods. But if you are enjoying a delicious meal with someone, invariably you will talk about the delectable flavors, even though the dishes are familiar fare. Sharing augments the pleasure.
So talk about the fullness of Christ–his character, blessings, and promises. Even if you have to talk to yourself! Revel in his fullness–the bounty he provides.
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What aspect of the fullness of Christ is most precious to you and why? Join the conversation below!
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