Devotion:
Read Colossians 3:7-17.
This scripture has so much in it about being Christlike and living the way Jesus lived. It tells us to clothe ourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, patience, love, and peacefulness. I love the idea of taking off the old and putting on new clothes. Growing up with my siblings we only got new clothes once a year for school and then a new dress or pants for Easter. That dress was symbolic for me as we learned in Sunday School that Jesus died for us but became new and eternal in the resurrection. With new clothes came the reminder that we were to try to live a life pleasing to God. That is where the peace in our heart comes in as we strive to live out the qualities that Jesus taught and showed by example.
The prayer of St. Francis of Assisi comes to mind. It starts with “Lord, make me an instrument of your peace”. It goes on to say, “Where there is hatred, let me sow love; where there is injury, pardon; where there is doubt, faith; where there is despair, hope; where there is darkness, light; and where there is sadness joy.” This prayer reminds us of the role we have as Christians. If we practice this lifestyle, we will be trying to live the way of Jesus.
Personal Worship Option:
Lord, the only peace and love we can share with others is the peace and love that you have first given us. Increase our desire to see your peace and love flow out of us to bless a hurting country and world. Amen.
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