January 3, 2019 – Colossians 3:12-13

Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, put on tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness, longsuffering; bearing with one another, and forgiving one another, if anyone has a complaint against another; even as Christ forgave you, so you also must do. Colossians 3:12-13.

The Voice reads verse 12 – Since you are all set apart by God, made holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with a holy way of life: compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience.   

Set apart, elect of God, ordained!  As I think of these words, I look out at the sky that is brightening as the sun begins to shine.  I see one star still shining.  God set apart the stars and the sun for His purposes, to bring light and hope into the world.

One star, shining brightly, led the wise men from the east to see Jesus.  Even as the sun brings light to our world, Jesus brings light to our inner being. John 8:12, Jesus spoke to the people once more and said, “I am the light of the world. If you follow me, you won’t have to walk in darkness, because you will have the light that leads to life.”

What causes division in our world? Complaints and unforgiveness.  Jesus forgives us and we must forgive others.  This is the true mark of following God’s Son, Jesus Christ.  Ephesians 4:31-32 compares living in sin versus righteousness.  Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior.  Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you.  

God’s love is enduring and inexhaustible.  God’s faithfulness is as broad as the sky above us. Each day He gives us a new beginning to live in His Love!

The faithful love of the Lord never ends! His mercies never cease. Great is his faithfulness; His mercies begin afresh each morning. Lamentations 3:22-23.