When did Paul write this letter? Paul most likely wrote Colossians around A.D. 60–62, while he was imprisoned in Rome. This is why Colossians is usually grouped with the “Prison Epistles” along with Ephesians, Philippians, and Philemon. Paul had probably never personally visited Colosse. Paul says in Colossians 2:1 that he struggled for those in Colosse and Laodicea who had not seen him “face to face.” The church was likely planted through the ministry of Epaphras, who had le

A Meditation on Colossians 1:15–17 There is this teenager. He was born into a Christian family. His dad and mom love God and their children dearly. I know the parents have worked hard to care for him, guide him, and point him in the right direction. But for now, he does not believe in God. Apparently, he thinks, “It’s all a fairy tale.” But I am encouraged by his honesty and continued communication with his parents. That matters. And I find myself saying, “In due time, may he

The Blessing in the Break From Jacob to Israel: Finding Grace in the Struggle Today, we walk with Jacob to the banks of the Jabbok River. He is a man caught between a past he cannot change and a future he is terrified to face. Left alone in the dark, he encounters a mysterious Stranger, and a night-long struggle ensues. This song that I am sharing with you today, "Wrestling with God," captures that journey—from the desperate, solitary grip of the night to the triumphant, comm

Jacob’s journey now clearly enters a new phase. What began as a departure from Laban’s household is not merely a relocation. It is a movement toward the land God had promised. But as is often the case, the path forward is far more complex and far more fearful than expected. In 31:36–55, we see that Jacob is no longer simply the “deceiver” we once knew. When Laban confronts him, accusing him of theft, Jacob responds with an uncharacteristic boldness. He lays out the injustice

Summary & Meditation Jacob finally moves. After years of tension, quiet exploitation, and growing unease, he gathers his family, his flocks, and everything he has, and leaves Paddan-aram. It is not just a physical departure. It is an act of obedience to God's calling (31:3). His life was not meant to be with the land of Laban. He was called to live out the covenant life back "home." But the way he leaves tells us something about where his heart still is. He does not tell Laba

Genesis 31:1–16 For over twenty years, Jacob has lived in Laban's house. What began as a desperate escape from his brother Esau has become something far more complex. Now Jacob has wives, children, flocks, and wealth. By every visible measure, he has built something from nothing. One would say that he should enjoy the fruit of his labor. However, God had a different plan for Jacob. It is time for Jacob to move on, and the signs were everywhere. First, Laban's sons were becomi