Let the Living Set Their Minds on Things Above

When an unsightly quince is cut open, it releases a sweet scent. In the same way, when God hung the lowly Jesus on the cross, a pleasing fragrance spread through the whole world. Those who now carry that fragrance God cuts finely with the knife of suffering and lays down in sugar, as fruit is preserved, so that they will not spoil.

Christians live in the world, yet they must set their hope on the things above. God does answer when his people ask for material needs and for peace, but these are not ends in themselves. They are granted as means for extending the Kingdom of God. Those whose hearts are fixed on earthly things are enemies of Christ, and their citizenship is not in heaven.

Salvation is not reserved for a privileged few. It has been given without distinction to all who believe in Christ. Yet if they do not put to death what is earthly in them, sexual immorality and greed, and instead put on the old self again, it will not be easy for them to be rescued. If they are to enjoy peace and rest beside Christ when he returns, they must break with sin now, at this very moment, and live with their hearts set on the things above.