“Whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus.” Col 1:28

The Apostle Paul was clear about his call to ministry. His single mission and purpose were to “present every man perfect in Christ Jesus.” Not some men, but every man. Not better, but perfect. This was not only the standard for his ministry, but for the man Paul himself. He encouraged those for whom he preached and discipled to “join in following my example” (Php 3:17). He was clear and confident of his call to serve the resurrected Christ that he could say “I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus” (Php 3:14). He followed the example of the Lord Jesus Christ who began His earthly ministry with a call to certain men, who later became His disciples, to “Follow Me.” They would follow Jesus in His daily walk and observe His interactions with people from different walks of life. Those who followed Jesus learned from His example. They observed on every occasion of His life the Father’s love for all people and the Son’s love for the Father. Christ exemplified the Father’s love for a world lost in sin and the Father’s love for His Son who laid down His life that “whosoever believed on Him should not perish but have everlasting life” (Jn 3:16). The central truth in this scripture verse, and throughout the Bible, is the love of God. The people of God are examples of God’s love to the world. In Jesus’ final words to His disciples, He commanded “That ye love one another; as I have loved you” (Jn 13:34). Begin this day assured of the Father’s love for you. Live out this day as an example of the Father’s love to others. Father, we love You, we praise You, and adore You. Thank You for Your Son Jesus who died for my sin and the sin of the world that we might know Your love through the forgiveness of sin. In Jesus Name. Amen.