Scripture— Colossians 3:12-14

“And above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness.” (Colossians 3:14)

John is part of a community of men and women who do life together. They study the Bible together, pray for each other, and support each other in everything they go through in life. There is no judgment or looking down on someone for not knowing the “correct” answer to a question. When John’s brother was in hospice care, and he was his primary caregiver, this group supported and loved him in every way possible. And John has reciprocated that love by caring for other men and women in the group as they have experienced major challenges.

All of us have times in our lives when we need extra measures of support and love. When things are difficult, or when we mess up and feel as if no one can love us, we need to be cared for and loved. And there are times when we need to care for others, especially when they mess up, or are going through difficult times.

Paul describes the new life that followers of Christ live in because of Christ’s sacrifice. Followers of Christ put off their old selfish ways and put on all the new virtues they have because of Christ. And above all of these things, we are called to put on love, which pulls everything else together. Unconditional love, or agape, is defined in God; it is a love of purpose, not emotion; and it is essential and integral to the community of God’s people.

Prayer

Father, help us show Your love for others and experience others’ love in our communities. Help us to never judge for love.  For Jesus’ sake, Amen.