Raised with Christ

 by Macy Johnson

“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 NIV)

 

 

Songs were written over many centuries to help believers recall scripture. The lyrical words guided worshippers to think about God and how the Holy Spirit works in their lives. As a teenager I sang popular Scripture Songs while driving, walking, and working through my day.

 

Several years ago I attended a Bible study with a women’s group at church. We studied the book of Colossians while going through lessons by Beth Moore. I wanted to memorize Colossians chapter 3, so I wrote a song using the verses. Many familiar tunes filled my head as I converted them to fit the words of that well-known chapter. I taught my song to the group of women, in hopes they would be able to better remember the chapter by singing it. A old, forgotten manuscript of “Colossians 3” is tucked away in a manila envelope on a shelf in my studio.

 

My brother accepted Christ at a young age and his surfer’s heart was set on fire for Jesus after high school. Every Wednesday night a large group of local surfers would meet at our house for a Bible Study. A pastor taught and guided the young men and me, in the ways of Christ’s followers. I was the “Martha” of the group, delegated to serving snacks and drinks. Many of those young surfers went on to attend Christian colleges and become leaders in their churches. Their futures were launched from that crowded family room in Pensacola.

 

Memories of Bible Study groups and the many, memorized scripture songs help lift my mind in praise to Jesus.

 

I will set my heart today on things above as I am raised with Christ. I hope you will, too!