Epaphras . . . sends greetings. He is always wrestling in prayer for you, that you may stand firm in all the will of God, mature and fully assured.

— Colossians 4:12

In my office is a picture of Jesus that depicts him as a child in Joseph’s carpenter shop. Joseph stands at his workbench while Jesus plays with a nail on the floor. As light shines in the window, the shadow cast over Jesus is in the shape of a cross. This painting continues to catch my attention whenever I walk into my office.

Colossians 1 paints a huge picture of Jesus. He is indeed the fullness of God. Jesus has the authority to rule because all creation has been made through him. Most importantly, though, Jesus is as close as the air we breathe, and he has made it possible for the Holy Spirit to live in us. God calls each of us his own. All this and more gives us reason to worship. And to give thanks. And to share.

Paul asks us in Colossians 4 not only to appreciate this news but also to use it as a springboard to pray for others. We do not pray in vain. We pray so that we may know God better, so that our faith may grow. We pray like Epaphras so that ­others may stand firm in the truth of the fullness of God.

Paul knows that standing on this foundation of truth is worth everything. What are you standing on today?

Spirit of God, live in us so that we may live with confidence and boldness and grow in faith. Help us to pray for others so that they too may experience full life in you. Amen.