"If then you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. 2Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth. 3For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. 4When Christ who is your life appears, then you also will appear with him in glory." (Colossians 3:1-4)

I heard a university president talking about seven years ago, and he said, "In our day, we attended college for a 'transactional' experience. Today, students seek a 'transformational' experience." What does that mean? For my generation (and others before it), a college degree was the ultimate "union card." It got you into jobs that had great pay, great benefits, great opportunities. Today? Students are seeking meaningful change and an opportunity to make a difference in their world.

It is what it is, but I heard the university president say that and thought, "He has just described the ultimate chasm between people my age and youth of today."

Paul uses the word "transformed" a number of times as he does "new self." He uses it in the context of the new life in Christ. We cast aside our old Adam and put on the new self, transformed by our redemption bought with a price.

Yesterday, we discussed the vanity of our pursuit of things earthly as Solomon wrote in Ecclesiastes. Today we set our minds on Christ (things above), not things on earth. In truth, as Christians, our transformation occurred on the cross of Christ and in his resurrection. We are no longer of this world when we gain faith in him, a gift from God through the waters of baptism as the Spirit writes our faith on our hearts.

Pray with me: Gracious Father, help me to focus on the race set before me as I run this race as a new being in Christ. Give me the strength of eagle's wings and help me to run each day as a man with just that day. Teach me and give me opportunities to talk about this transformation wiht others who have yet to know you. In your Son's name, Amen.