Colossians 3:12-15
“As God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience. Bear with one another and, if anyone has a complaint against another, forgive each other; just as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive. 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.” Colossians 3:12-15 (NRSVUE)
Paul wrote these letters to the people of Colossae while he was in prison. Paul had been told by another Pastor while he was in prison that the people of Colossae were succumbing to cultural pressures at the time. False teachings and practices were threatening their faith. I love what Paul writes – he tells the people to clothe themselves in compassion, kindness, humility, meekness and patience.
Having just returned from a trip to Spain in the month of August, I am reminded just how important it is to clothe yourself appropriately. I packed a lot of clothes that I never wore due to the excessive heat. In addition, most of our activities revolved around my granddaughter who is two, so once again I really just needed to pack casual clothes. And for the actual travel days, the clothing selection is very strategic – comfy shoes but not sandals and layering for the possibility of a cold or hot plane/tram/airport. I always get home and feel I’ve learned lessons for packing the appropriate clothes (and less!!!) for the next trip…and then reality sets in, a new trip looms large and I’m back to the ambivalence of how and what to pack.
Paul knew the people of Colossae were wavering in how to continue in their Christian faith. In these passages, he communicates to them to hold steadfast and to not succumb to the culture. If the people can clothe themselves in these qualities that will clothe them in Christ and above all in love, then they can focus on heavenly pursuits instead.
Questions for Reflection:
- How hard is it to be compassionate, kind, humble, meek and patient in today’s world?
- How do we let the peace of Christ rule in our hearts?
Prayer:
Dear Lord,
Help us to be compassionate, kind, humble, meek and patient. As a Christian in today’s world, these are qualities that may run counter to the culture, but we know you ask us to clothe ourselves this way to keep our focus on you. We are thankful Lord.
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