City Life Starter

Written by Megan Meier

The Word

“For by him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things were created through him and for him. And he is before all things, and in him all things hold together.”

Colossians 1:16-17 (ESV)

“…everything got started in him and finds its purpose in him.”

Colossians 1:16b (The Message)

Megan’s Musings

Ever had that feeling, that something is missing, that you’ve missed out on something, or there is something out there greater for you? Some call it midlife (or quarter-life) crisis, needing to find themselves and/or achieve self-actualization. Whatever their age and whatever they call it, they’re lost. We lose our way when we lose our why. Why do we exist? Way too many take the well-meaning but misguided advice to look inside themselves for answers, which is like drinking salt water, at first it seems to do the trick, but the victim ends up thirstier and thirstier until they die. Where else to look?    

Now I’m going to say something shocking, are you sitting down? Okay, good. Ready?

Life is not all about you. 

Recovered? Need a glass of water? Alright, let’s continue. 

I’m not trying to be patronizing, I need that reminder every once in a while (although the realization hasn’t made me faint, if I ever reach that point, just splash the water on my face as hard as you can to wake me up, I’ll deserve it). 

Life is not about you, or your wishes, peace (by the world’s standards), or prosperity (the prosperity gospel is not The Gospel). And it’s not about pleasing other humans (praise God for that!). Everything and everyone got started in God and finds their purpose in God. Everything and everyone exist to bring glory to God. He existed before time (by human standards) began and through Him, everything is held together. Instead of futilely searching inward or to the world for your story, consult the Creator and the Owner’s Manual. Your story is intended to be a reflection of the Story of God, and the Story of God is an eternal, beyond the cosmos, story. 

Application

I’ll be honest: today’s devo was heavily inspired by The Purpose Driven Life by Rick Warren, particularly the first chapter (I highly recommended his book). If this was Sesame Street, I’d say, “This devotional was brought to you today by The Purpose Driven Life by Rick Warren and a lot of coffee.” The purpose of your story is to bring glory to God. To do that, worship God with all your being, fellowship with other believers, grow in Christ-like character, use your talents to serve the Church, and tell others about Jesus. Don’t know where to start? Start with a relationship with Jesus Christ, He’s been wanting to meet you!   

Prayer

Dear Jesus, thank You for being my guiding Light in my story. Help me reflect Your Story in my life. In Your Name I pray, amen.