“Turning” refers to the change of the earth-seasons that happens as Winter gives way to Spring in the northern hemisphere. It also reflects the call to renewal through repentance (turning) that Lent invites.

Colossians 3:3 offers an intriguing expression for the spiritual life: being “hidden with Christ in God.” Mysticism blended with the letter’s pragmatic call to faith and service makes for a creative place to gather.

The letter to the Colossians describes the transformation that is possible in community because of the indwelling of the Spirit of Christ:

• In Christ, “all things hold together” (1:17)

• Christ is within them (1:27)

• The people represent the “hope of glory” (1:27)

• Christ’s new life obliterates old offenses (2:13-15)

• They are hidden with Christ in God (3:3)

• Christ is their life (3:4) and

• The word of Christ dwells within them (3:16)

All these phrases locate the Christ both within and surrounding the people of God-- a theme worthy of our attention through a full season.

This “within and surrounding” Christ invites a theology of incarnation appropriate in Lent. As we follow the deep stories of Jesus on Sundays, Colossians at mid-week completes the picture of sharing Christ’s life in all its urgent mystery.