Passage of the Day:
Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self with its practices 10 and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator. 11 Here there is no Gentile or Jew, circumcised or uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave or free, but Christ is all, and is in all. 12 Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. 13 Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. 14 And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity, Colossians 3:9-14.
Reflection:
One of my favorite books of the Bible as a new Christian was Colossians. My spiritual mentor informed me about the importance of putting to death your old self, highlighted by the apostle Paul in Colossians 3:5-8. Ken explained this to me as former addictions, behaviors, choices and earthly desires you indulged in prior to entering into a personal relationship with Jesus. In place of these old practices, God urges Christians to put on your new self. Similar to the fruits of the Spirit detailed in Galatians 5:22-23, the key ingredient which binds each of these virtues together is love. Putting on love enables Christians to bear with, pray for and forgive all who trespass against you.
Prayerful Action:
Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. 7 It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres, 1 Corinthians 13:6-7.
Learning to Love this December as God Loves You:
Reading the Bible and putting Jesus’ words into action may take years before your life begins to bring light and love to others. Unfortunately, there are certain people that you cross paths with daily that are difficult to love. These individuals have a back story, painful experiences which often make them hesitant to love and trust other people. This inner pain is poured out in the form of anger, emotional outbursts and harsh words. Situations like this is why Jesus calls Christians to love and pray for those who persecute you, Matthew 5:43-44. When God tests your faith, you’ll gain valuable experience in putting on love.
Song of the Day:
Final Thoughts:
Difficult times shape who you are and provides opportunities for spiritual growth. May the lyrics of Love Like This help prepare you to put on love this Christmas season.
by Jay Mankus
ExpressYourself4Him 