MARMALADE
Imagine the real you being represented by an empty jam jar. All the good and bad stuff from our life experiences get mixed together in this jam jar, and before meeting Christ it was a most unappetizing concoction. But when we met Christ, all the bad aspects of our nature were crucified with Christ at the cross. We traded our old life of corruption for the sweetness of His presence. Hallelujah!
But however old we are, many of us still carry around the memories of our past ways of life, and the sting of old regrets. Much like bitter orange peel in improperly cooked marmalade, these old memories can lie dormant at the bottom of the jam jar only to reappear when we experience a painful reminder like a knife going deep into the marmalade jar, exposing the bitter peel underlying the sweet jelly. When this happens, we might respond with: anxiety, fear, pride, stubbornness, rejection, self-rejection, unteachableness, isolation, or self-centredness as the bitter peel comes to the surface. All this occurs because of issues that we have left dormant from earlier in our lives.
So, when we experience distressing reactions to life issues, is there anything we can do?
When heat is applied to marmalade oranges, pectin is released. Likewise, as the heat of painful memories occur today, we need to release our own setting agent. Paul 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. (Colossians 3:1 – 3) Paul goes on to tell us how this can be accomplished:
1) Removing our Old Earthly Nature
Put to death, therefore, whatever belongs to your earthly nature……. You used to walk in these ways, in the life you once lived. But now you must also rid yourselves of all such things as these: anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language from your lips. (Colossians 3:5 - 8) We must be proactive!
2) Applying the New Self in the Holy Spirit
Put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator. (Col. 3:11)
Just as the orange peel becomes immersed and captivated in the sweet marmalade jelly, we are to revel in His love, daily enjoying His closeness and intimacy. Paul goes on to say: Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. (Col. 3:12) Notice these are the fruits of the Holy Spirit (Galatians 5:22, 23)
3) Ensuring the Peace of Christ Rules
Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. (Colossians 3:15)
God’s peace should govern our minds and actions. Isaiah 26:3 states that the Lord will keep us in “perfect peace whose mind is stayed on Him”. How often do we take this verse to heart and apply it to ourselves on a daily basis? Likewise, God’s peace causes us to become one with Him, and one with His plans and purposes for our lives.
4) Living out God’s word in Community
Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts. (Colossians 3:16)
What we feed our mind, will become part of us. If we put God’s word into practice, it will be transformational in our thinking and behaviour. But this verse also points to corporate Body ministry for our mutual upbuilding.
5) Demonstrating a Thankful heart
And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him. (Colossians 3:17)
Marmalade became a firm favourite in the UK because of the different character to other conserves and preserves. It is bitter-sweet. We don’t forget those old issues and memories that have caused us distress earlier in life; rather in Christ they enhance who we are, so that in turn we can better minister to those around us who may be encountering similar issues.
