True Colors
I think we can all agree that the colors of fall are spectacular. We love to photograph them and share the beauty we capture with family and friends.
I’m reminded that those amazing colors are actually the true colors of the leaves, the colors that were hidden by the green of summer. The green came from chlorophyll that is used along with the sunlight in the process of photosynthesis. As we learned in our early science lessons, photosynthesis generates oxygen as a byproduct of synthesizing food from carbon dioxide and water.
As the autumn days grow shorter and the temperatures grow cooler, the trees stop making chlorophyll. The colors which were hidden by the green chlorophyll now become visible.
We are like those leaves.
As we abide in Christ, God’s life-giving oxygen is produced when the fruit of the Spirit is manifested in our lives. The true colors of our old nature are hidden in Christ. They are covered as we are transformed by the renewing of our minds… as we bathe in the ‘Son-light’ of Jesus.
However, if we begin withholding ‘Son-light’ and impeding the transformation process, our hearts grow colder just as the autumn temperatures. Our true colors come out as the fruit of the Spirit disappears from our lives. Unlike the beautiful colors of fall, our true colors are not radiant; our true colors are not picture perfect.
The good news... unlike the leaves, we have a choice. We get to decide whether we take in the 'Son-light' and allow transformation. Abiding in Christ will always produce beautiful fruit. The choice is ours.
As you watch the beauty of fall unfold, it is a good time to ask yourself what color your spirit is. Are you transformed by the Son or do your true colors remain on display?
Ephesians 4:23-24
…to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.
John 15:5
“I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing."
Romans 12:2
Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.
Colossians 3:3
For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God.
I pray you will display the amazing colors of Jesus' splendor as you continue to hide yourself in Him.
Many Blessings!
— Robyn Alsip Arce, © 2021
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