Colossians 1:21 (NIV) – “Once you were alienated from God and were enemies in your minds because of your evil behavior.”
When we speak about the gospel of Jesus Christ, the conversation often centers around the events of the cross: His crucifixion, death, burial, and resurrection. These are indeed central to our faith, foundational truths that make salvation possible. But beyond the physical events lies a deeper spiritual reality that is just as transformative.
In his letter to the Colossians, the apostle Paul pulls back the curtain and reveals a breathtaking dimension of what Jesus accomplished—not just for Himself, but for all of us. Through His resurrection, Jesus didn’t just overcome death: He triumphed over every force of darkness that opposes God and His creation.
Paul describes this victory in vivid terms. He tells us that we were once “alienated from God”, not because God abandoned us, but because our own mindsets and actions had created a separation. We lived according to ways that led us away from light, life, and truth—into spiritual shadows where fear, shame, confusion, and sin held sway.
But then, Jesus stepped in.
RESCUED FROM THE SHADOWS
In Colossians 1, Paul announces something extraordinary:
“He has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son He loves…” (Colossians 1:13, paraphrased)
This isn’t just poetic language—it’s a description of a cosmic shift. When Jesus rose from the grave, He didn’t just rise for Himself. He shattered the chains of darkness that held all of humanity captive and invited us into a completely different kind of existence—a kingdom of light.
This is what the Bible calls redemption. It’s not just about being forgiven, though that alone is a priceless gift. It’s also about being transferred into a new spiritual reality where we are no longer subject to the forces that once ruled over us. Fear doesn’t have to own us. Shame doesn’t get the final say. Despair isn’t our destiny. Because Jesus is alive, we are free.
LIVING AS CITIZENS OF THE LIGHT
To step into the kingdom of light is to embrace a new identity, one rooted in the life and love of Jesus. The moment we receive Him, we are not just improved versions of our former selves; we are entirely new creations. The past may have shaped us, but it no longer defines us.
This doesn’t mean we won’t face challenges or battles. But now, we face them with a different source of power. The Spirit of God now dwells within us, leading us step by step into the fullness of who God created us to be. In this new kingdom, we are not alone. We are not powerless. We are not forgotten.
The kingdom of light is not a far-off place reserved for the future—it’s a present spiritual reality that reshapes how we live, think, and love right now.
VICTORY IS A PERSON
The kingdom of light has a King, and His name is Jesus. He is not just our example; He is our victory. Because He lives, we can walk in confidence, joy, and freedom. The battles we face today—whether emotional, physical, or spiritual—are already met with His overcoming power.
Our part is to trust and remain in Him. To stay grounded in who He is and what He has done. And to keep our eyes fixed on the light, even when darkness tries to creep in.
GRATITUDE: THE LANGUAGE OF THE KINGDOM
Take a moment today to pause and reflect on what it means to be part of this glorious kingdom. No longer alienated. No longer wandering. You have been rescued, redeemed, and brought near.
Let gratitude rise up from your heart, not just for what Jesus has done, but for who He is.
Thank Him for the light. Thank Him for the freedom. Thank Him for the victory that’s not only coming, but already here.
A PRAYER TO THE KING OF LIGHT
Jesus, thank You for rescuing me from the grip of darkness and welcoming me into Your kingdom of light. Help me to walk in the freedom You’ve already given me. Teach me to live as a new creation, led by Your Spirit and grounded in Your love. Let Your light shine through me, so others may see the beauty of who You are. Amen.
Reflection Question
What areas of your life still feel trapped in darkness? How can you invite Jesus into those spaces to experience His light, freedom, and transformation? Amen.
