Our scripture this morning is Colossians 3:12-17.
“Since God chose you to be the holy people he loves, you must clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Make allowance for each other’s faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others. Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds us all together in perfect harmony. And let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. For as members of one body you are called to live in peace. And always be thankful. Let the message about Christ, in all its richness, fill your lives. Teach and counsel each other with all the wisdom he gives. Sing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs to God with thankful hearts. And whatever you do or say, do it as a representative of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through him to God the Father.”
Paul reminds us to forgive others as God has forgiven us. Without forgiveness there can’t be peace among us and more than anything God wants us to live in peace. Our hearts must be right with God and each other.
He continues “clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience” (v. 12). These spiritual gifts are necessary to reach those who have not heard the Good News. God has provided these that we may carry out the ministry Jesus passed on to us.
If we can’t live peaceably with those who are part of the body of Christ, how can we live with those who are outside? We must focus on what is most important – making disciples of all the world – and not our petty disagreements. God calls us all to a life in Him and only when we obey can we live with Him eternally.
Gracious God, we are thankful for the example Jesus showed us of what our relationship with You should be. Help us to live as He did and share the blessing of Your love with everyone. Amen.