So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in Him, rooted and built up in Him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness.    Colossians 2:6-7 (NIV)

Union with Christ comes through the act of repentance in faith. Everything else flows from this. Christ came to accomplish our salvation, but living in Him is not a once and done accomplishment. We come to Him with nothing and ask Him to rescue us, and He does. But from that moment, our hands are no longer empty. He bestows upon us the gifts, courage, and strength to enable us to step out and live in Him as well.  We are rooted in Jesus; in Him we grow – albeit sometimes slowly, and we become increasingly conformed to His example, which we learn in the Word of God, our pattern for godliness. Our live are an ongoing process; we walk thankfully for what He has done, but also for what He is doing in us day by day.

Most gracious Heavenly Father,

Thankfulness fills my heart every step of the way in this journey with You. I know I mess up, and sometimes seem to throw all I have learned aside. But You never gives up on me! What I began by grace, I will finish by grace, and one day I will see You as You are-one glorious day!

I love You, Lord.

Amen