Our scripture this morning is Colossians 3:14-17.
Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony. And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in the one body. And be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly; teach and admonish one another in all wisdom; and with gratitude in your hearts sing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs to God. And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.
Paul writes that we are to “clothe yourselves with love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony.” Loving one another as Jesus taught us is always the best starting point. When we approach a problem with love rather than frustration or anger we can come to the solution God intends for us.
As in 1 Corinthians 13, Paul teaches us that love is the most important gift we have received, the fuel that drives all other gifts. It doesn’t matter what we do, if love isn’t the motive, it isn’t God’s will. Everything God has done for us is out of His love; we are called to do the same for each other.
This is the reason for Paul’s instruction “whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus.” Christ tells us “No one who does a deed of power in my name will be able soon afterward to speak evil of me. Whoever is not against us is for us“ (Mark 9:39-40). His love leads us to be connected to God and one another as He is.
Gracious God, we know Your love and want to share that blessing with the world. Help us to go in Your name, telling the Good News of salvation to all. Amen.
