Hidden with Christ in God. This is my sign-off for my Caravan Letters. Perhaps you’re wondering like my sister, “What does it mean?”

Colossians 3:1-4 says, “Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God. When Christ, who is your life, appears, then you also will appear with Him in glory.”

Let me put it a little differently: At the moment of our salvation, the old self died and we were raised to new life in Christ. Jesus Himself is our life, so who we are is concealed, sheltered, hidden with Him.

It’s a mystery. Yet, what I can grasp is overwhelmingly beautiful.

We are saved the moment we put our full trust in Jesus Christ and the work He has done to bring us redemption. And, at that time, another remarkable things happens. God literally transfers us from the dominion of darkness to the Kingdom of the Son He loves (Colossians 1:13-14).

Our citizenship is not a signed and sealed paper, to be put into effect when we die. Our citizenship in the Kingdom of God is now. We have been raised spiritually with Christ to dwell in God’s presence as sons and daughters. That’s where our true life is.

For me, the concept of being hidden with Christ in God is very special. It assures me that I am protected, treasured, provided for, saved, and I have a future eternity with God. I am secure.

Jesus is not ashamed to call me His sister, but joyfully places me with Him in God’s presence (Hebrews 2:11, Jude vs.24).

And this, not because of what I’ve done or will do!

“But because of His great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions – it is by grace you have been saved. And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with Him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus, in order that in the coming ages He might show the incomparable riches of His grace, expressed in His kindness to us in Christ Jesus” (Ephesians 2:4-7).

It’s a mystery, no doubt. Yet, trusting that God’s Word is truth and taking the words at their simplest value helps me rest and remain secure in my relationship and position in Christ Jesus.

Dear friend, this is true of you, too! You also are saved by Christ, raised with Christ, hidden in Him. You also are protected, treasured, provided for, and have a future eternity with God. You are secure. It gives Jesus great joy to call you brother or sister; to bring you to the Father to enjoy relationship.

May God help us contemplate and marvel anew at this mystery and truth.

Hidden with Christ in God,

Alyson Jensen