LIFE THAT SEEKS CHRIST

"Difference of opinion is not a problem, difference in income? That is a big problem." The bitter joke reveals a bitter reality: Because of matters of getting income, friends become enemies, supporters become opposition, right-hand men become traitors. For some people, obtaining a big income is the pursued and sought-after goal in life.

However, Apostle Paul advises, "Seek the things that are above ... think about the things above, not those on earth" (verse 1-2). The "things on earth" in verse 2 are not things that exist on earth (family, education, economy, wealth, etc.) in themselves, but when those things become another god, become the purpose and priority in life. And, "seeking what is above" is not about discarding all things in the world, but seeing the world and all its problems with a new center, which is the risen Christ (verse 3-4). "Seeking what is above" is striving to obey the will of Christ in daily life on earth.

What does that look like?

When someone remains honest even though it closes many opportunities, when a neglected employee chooses to remain faithful without speaking ill of colleagues, when a business owner pays employees on time even though business conditions are tough, they all are "seeking what is above", but still doing what is on earth. "What is above" is present in the midst of what is on earth; not separating, not degrading, but sanctifying.

Thus, a life that seeks Christ does not discard the world, but instead helps the world become better. --EE/www.renunganharian.net