Two Passports

One of the greatest blessings of my early Christian life – were my meetings with Sonia.

Sonia was a strong, wise and godly woman in her 80s back then, who had been involved in pioneering evangelism to students before I was even born! She was a prayer warrior – who had decades of experience of walking with Jesus and could testify to His faithfulness in every season.

Once a term, I had the privilege of getting the train into central London where we shared a platter of triangular sandwiches and a big pot of tea as we opened the Scriptures together.

It was a feast – in every sense!

Sonia was keen that we open the book of Colossians in those months. I was expectant - but had no idea that a picture would be impressed upon me that first Bible Study that has stayed with me ever since.

We read the first two verses of Paul’s ancient letter together:

"Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, and Timothy our brother,

To God’s holy people in Colossae, the faithful brothers and sisters in Christ:

Grace and peace to you from God our Father.”

“Did you see it?” she said. And looked at me with a glint in her eye…

“We’ve got two passports!"

For the next hour, we poured over what that could possibly mean. To be in a place but also in a Person. To be a citizen of earth and a citizen of heaven. To be here on broken, fallen ground and in Jesus, who is risen and reigning. We talked about the riches upon riches of what it means to be united with Christ.

Where has God planted you? What town? What college? What family? 

Before and beneath and at the very core - remember:

You are in [insert your town/college/country here], and in Christ.

You’re a dual citizen! You have two passports.

You’re on earth for a season – but are heading home.

You’re present here – but you also carry His presence.

You’re redeemed. Adopted. Forgiven.

You’re safe, known and guided.

You’re sealed with the Spirit and loved beyond comprehension.

You have received the light, life and love of God – and like a jar of clay, can let that shine out so others around may see there’s something ‘different’ about you. You’re in Him.

So, wherever you’re led. Wherever you are. Wherever you go. Remember:

You have two passports.

Heavenly Father, thank you so much for rescuing me. Thank you that I am in Christ. Would you reveal to me the riches of what that truly means. By the empowering of your Holy Spirit - would you help me to live and speak where I’ve been planted as someone with ‘two passports’. And would others see LORD – and want to experience your grace too. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

To dive into the book of Colossians in your own time – or as a Christian Union, you can find a ‘15 Min Bible Study’ called Supreme here!