Testaments

We always give thanks to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ when we pray for you, for we have heard of your faith in Christ Jesus and the love that you have for all the holy ones because of the hope reserved for you in heaven. Of this you have already heard through the word of truth, the Gospel, that has come to you. Just as in the whole world it is bearing fruit and growing, so also among you, from the day you heard it and came to know the grace of God in truth - Col 1, 3-6

As I revisit these words from this morning's liturgy, I find myself thinking of my many friends who are faithful followers of Christ Jesus, who are clearly giving growth to the kingdom of God by how they live their lives, and who serve as examples for me. Their faith encourages my strength against the temptations in my own life, helps me to renounce my sin and the influences that come with it, to instead walk in grace so as perhaps to bear fruit for those around me to see, as well.