The Daily Devotional
Wednesday, February 5, 2025
We Believe
For in him all the fullness of God was pleased to dwell, and through him God was pleased to reconcile to himself all things, whether on earth or in heaven, by making peace through the blood of his cross. (Colossians 1:19-20)
Introduction
The Nicene Creed serves as a cornerstone of our faith, summarizing the essential truths about God, Jesus Christ, the Holy Spirit, and the Church. Its declarations are not just theological affirmations but heartfelt confessions of our relationship with God. Colossians 1:19-20 echoes the heart of the Creed, proclaiming the divine fullness of Christ and His work of reconciliation.
The Nicene Creed
We believe in one God,
the Father, the Almighty,
maker of heaven and earth,
of all that is, seen and unseen.
We believe in one Lord, Jesus Christ,
the only Son of God,
eternally begotten of the Father,
God from God, Light from Light,
true God from true God,
begotten, not made,
of one Being with the Father.
Through him all things were made.
For us and for our salvation
he came down from heaven:
by the power of the Holy Spirit
he became incarnate from the Virgin Mary,
and was made man.
For our sake he was crucified under Pontius Pilate;
he suffered death and was buried.
On the third day he rose again
in accordance with the Scriptures;
he ascended into heaven
and is seated at the right hand of the Father.
He will come again in glory to judge the living and the dead,
and his kingdom will have no end.
We believe in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, the giver of life,
who proceeds from the Father and the Son.
With the Father and the Son he is worshiped and glorified.
He has spoken through the Prophets.
We believe in one holy catholic and apostolic Church.
We acknowledge one baptism for the forgiveness of sins.
We look for the resurrection of the dead,
and the life of the world to come. Amen.
Reflection
The Nicene Creed begins with the words, "We believe," a powerful unifying declaration of our faith. It reminds us that our belief transcends time and culture, linking us with the saints of old and the global Church today. This Creed is more than words; it is a proclamation of the fullness of God in Christ, who reconciles all things.
Imagine a broken vase in a museum—a once-beautiful artifact shattered into countless pieces. A skilled artist painstakingly restores it, not hiding the cracks but filling them with gold, making it more beautiful than before. This practice, known as *kintsugi* in Japanese art, is a striking image of Christ’s reconciling work. Through His blood, Christ does not erase our brokenness but redeems it, making us whole and glorious reflections of His grace.
When we say "We believe," we acknowledge Christ's restorative work in our lives and in the world. He is the fullness of God, the reconciler of heaven and earth, and the anchor of our faith.
Application
Today, reflect on the words of the Nicene Creed and the truths it proclaims. Consider these questions:
How does the phrase "We believe in one God" shape your view of daily life and relationships?
What does it mean for you that Jesus is "God from God, Light from Light, true God from true God"?
How can you live out the truth that the Holy Spirit, "the Lord, the giver of life," is actively working in and through you?
Make the Creed a part of your daily prayer. Speak its truths not only in words but in actions that reflect your belief. Show reconciliation in your relationships, unity in your community, and hope in a world longing for redemption.
Conclusion
The Nicene Creed is not a relic of the past but a living declaration of faith. When we proclaim "We believe," we stand with generations of believers in a shared faith centered on Jesus Christ, the fullness of God. May its truths inspire us to live boldly, trust deeply, and serve faithfully.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, We thank You for the gift of the Nicene Creed, a confession that anchors our faith in the truths of Your Word. Thank You for reconciling us to Yourself through the fullness of Christ, who gave His life for us. Holy Spirit, empower us to live out these truths with conviction, love, and unity. Help us to proclaim with our lives that "We believe." In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
Devotional by: Kenny Sallee, ThM — Deming, NM, USA
The Bible texts are from the New Revised Standard Version Bible (NRSV)© 1989, 1993, the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
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