Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God.
- Colossians 3:1

Jesus doesn’t just make things better; he makes us new. In today’s passage, Paul uses resurrection-language to communicate what has happened to us in the wake of our encounter with Jesus.

When Jesus was raised from the dead, he didn’t just experience life after death; he experienced new life. He didn’t wander the Judean countryside as a zombie. He made a glorious appearance that transformed lives and history. And we participate in his resurrection.

We have been raised with Christ if we have placed our faith and trust in him. If you are a Christian, this resurrection event is something that happened in your past. We can look in the rear view mirror and see both the Easter miracle and the sudden or slow journey that has linked us to Jesus’ new life.

And yet there’s also this present experience. Jesus is right now seated in a place of authority. Right now we are called to set our hearts on things above, to shift our focus onto Jesus.

We’re sure you have 101 things you can focus on as you start this week. The week may feel new, but that doesn’t mean you do too. Our encouragement for you today is to spread your sails and catch the wind that’s blowing your way – Jesus is raised from the dead and will carry you forward into a new life with him.

What daily disciplines and rhythms center your focus on things above? How can you set your heart on Jesus today?