– Don Schwager, editor of the Daily Scripture Readings and Meditations, provides an example of how to drink in the words of the Lord, and gives us an opportunity to consider our own inner disposition.

Scripture passage: Colossians 3:16-17
“Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teach and admonish one another in all wisdom, and sing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs with thankfulness in your hearts to God.  And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.”

Reflection on verse 16: “let the word of Christ dwell in you richly”
Slowly repeat and speak out loud to yourself this first verse: Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly. Pause and reflect on each of the key words in this verse:

  • The word “let” here means to allow, to give permission. Do I daily give the Lord permission to form and change my way of thinking, judging, speaking, and acting according to his word, his mind, his heart, and his will for my life?
  • The “word of Christ” isn’t merely a printed word, but a personal living word.  It is Christ himself, the Word of God, who speaks to us. To follow and serve the Word is first to listen to Christ and to be taught by Christ. A disciple never stops listening, learning, and growing in the mind of Christ. “Morning by morning he opens (awakens) my ear to hear as those who are taught” (Isaiah 50:4). Do I ask the Lord to open my ears to hear him speak to me and guide me in prayer and in study and meditation of his word – especially when distracted or preoccupied?
  • The expression “dwell in you” means to be your constant companion whom you never leave or set aside. “It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me” (Galatians 2:20). Is the word of Christ my constant companion – my lifeline and my daily bread (nourishment)? Do I relate to it as if my life depended on it?
  • The expression “richly” means to make our treasure, our portion, and the joy of our heart and work. “Give me life, O Lord, according to your word! Your testimonies are my heritage for ever; yes, they are the joy of my heart” (Psalm 119:107, 111). How might the Lord want me to grow in love of his word and find joy in living it and speaking it to my brothers and others as well?

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Don Schwager is a member of the Servants of the Word and author of the Daily Scripture Readings and Meditations website.