Col 1:17: “He is before all things, and in him all things hold together.” [NIV]
Once again, we are confronted by that term “all things” and by the preeminence and supremacy of Christ Jesus our Lord. He is before all things, meaning He existed before anything existed. And as we read yesterday, He is the reason anything even exists. He created all things and all things were created for Him.
As captivated by that truth as I am, I am more captivated by the truth that “all things” hold together in Him. He is the Sustainer.
There are many names for Christ, each of which holds marvelous truths for us. Redeemer, Savior, Life, Light to name just a few. Yet, each of those speaks to us of His work. Sustainer also speaks to my heart and mind today. I think when we talk about Christ as Sustainer, we think in terms of the physical universe, as we should. He holds every molecule, atom and sub-atomic particle together. The stars and planet stay their course by His word. The so-called “laws of nature” are simply our God exercising the power to sustain.
But it’s also a personal work in us. God sustains us. He comes alongside and brings the power to keep us in even the most difficult of times. I take comfort in the knowledge that Christ Jesus my Lord can hold my life together even when everything appears to be working to disrupt it.
Father, what joy in knowing that the Son You love is able and does hold life together! Thank you for His sustaining power in every storm, trial, and trouble. Amen.
