We represent a lot of different things at various times. If we drive down the freeway with a church bumper sticker on our car, we are representing our church, the body of Christ, and even Christ to others. If we wear a particular sports team’s jersey, we are representing that team, or at least that we are supporters of that team. Whatever we do and wherever we go, we represent our family.
Paul told the Colossians that they should do everything as a representative of the Lord in whatever they do or say. Whether I realize it or not, since I call myself a Christian, I really am representing Jesus in whatever I say or do. That means that when my walk is pure and holy, then I am being a good and effective representative of, not only Christ, but of all other Christians as well.
Conversely, if I’m either saying or doing things that I shouldn’t, then I am being a poor representative of Christ. I know that I am often not a good representative. I need to understand that I could cause another to stumble or stay away from God if my actions are not something that is a true representation of Christ. I want to draw people to God, not away from him. My life should reflect Christ so that others see him in me!
Colossians 3:17 (NLT) - “And whatever you do or say, do it as a representative of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through him to God the Father.”