That I may make it clear.

Colossians 4:2-4, Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving. At the same time, pray also for us, that God may open to us a door for the word, to declare the mystery of Christ, on account of which I am in prison— that I may make it clear, which is how I ought to speak.

It’s equally interesting what Paul doesn’t pray for: release from prison. He returned to Jerusalem knowing clearly by the Holy Spirit what awaited him, and saw it as an advancement of the Gospel of Christ. He encourages each of us to “work heartily, as for the Lord and not for me,” so that we can apply this same prayer to our normal lives. Many people are unhappy about their jobs, yet even so God has each of us in a particular place where he desires to use us. Are we prepared to give a clear account for the reason for the hope that is within us right where we are?

Open our ears to hear your promptings, that we may be used to accomplish your plans right were we are and to make clear the mystery of Christ to others; thank you that your plans give us a future and a hope no matter what our circumstances might be!

ESV Lectionary