WHEN “CHRIST IN ME” DOESN’T MEAN DISAPPEARING
Yesterday, I shared how I used to believe I was only able to be accepted by God once I was “covered” by Jesus—almost like God couldn’t stand the sight of me until I was hidden away behind someone holier (enter Jesus). That belief left me feeling invisible, unworthy, and deeply disconnected from who I actually am.
I think part of the reason I believed that (aside from being taught that Jesus covers you, go away and let him) was because of scriptures like, “It is not I who lives, but Christ who lives in me”(Galatians 2:20). Back then, I interpreted that as: Who I am is bad. My personality, my desires, my thoughts (all of me) needs to die so Jesus can replace me.
But I see it differently now.
I don’t believe that verse is about disappearing or erasing ourselves. I believe it’s about transformation, not annihilation. It’s not about becoming less me, but becoming more fully alive, aligned with love, justice, mercy, and compassion.
When Paul says “Christ in me,” I think he’s talking about participation. Participation of joining in the work and spirit of God’s kingdom here on earth. It’s about living as Christ lived:
In radical love and hospitality
In acceptance and inclusion
In courage to stand against corrupt, harmful religion
In refusal to let power, greed, or fear define the way we treat others
That’s not about disappearing into Jesus like I’m a broken thing that needs to be covered up. It’s about allowing my life to be animated by the same love that animated his, without losing my own God-given personality, voice, and unique way of being in the world.
Bad religion wants you to think your worth is in how well you disappear. Love says your worth is in how fully you show up.
So maybe “Christ in me” isn’t God turning away from me until I’m hidden and gone. Maybe it’s God saying, Come alive. Live this love. Be part of the healing. Be free.
