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. 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. Colossians 3:12-17
The sun is shining and the world is warming up today. Spring is always late in this part of the world but it has been slow to arrive, even for New England. The harsh winter is finally behind us and we can put away all of the clothing of winter, the barriers against the cold, and lighten up, stepping out into the sunshine. It can be hard when the seasons of life finally shift, to toss off the garments of protection and to welcome the new life. It can be hard to turn, but forgiveness, compassion and kindness are always right for every season.
The early church was sustained on letters that brought courage and new strength in troubled times. We are all sustained in our darker days but the witness and love of others, who help us through our tough times, our deep cold winters, and our roughest journeys. Faith requires companions, and we all need those who can revive us, and help us along the road.
Today I ask God to help me reach out to others on the way. May our hearts be always ready for compassion and may we be dresses for the challenges ahead, whether they are ours or the challenges others face. May we always be ready to give and receive a helping hand.
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