Serve in the Name of Christ

Creation: A Divine Cycle
The Birthing of a New Community

Re-Created to Live in Harmony

Colossians 3:12-17. The Message

12-14 So, chosen by God for this new life of love, dress in the wardrobe God picked out for you: compassion, kindness, humility, quiet strength, discipline. Be even-tempered, content with second place, quick to forgive an offense. Forgive as quickly and completely as the Master forgave you. And regardless of what else you put on, wear love. It’s your basic, all-purpose garment. Never be without it.
15-17 Let the peace of Christ keep you in tune with each other, in step with each other. None of this going off and doing your own thing. And cultivate thankfulness. Let the Word of Christ—the Message—have the run of the house. Give it plenty of room in your lives. Instruct and direct one another using good common sense. And sing, sing your hearts out to God! Let every detail in your lives—words, actions, whatever—be done in the name of the Master, Jesus, thanking God, the Father, every step of the way.

For Reflection

How does one serve in the name of Christ?

Paul answers briefly in actionable and practical practices.  First, realize that God has chosen you and you have elected to be obedient to God.  And now, having given your allegiance to God, wear the robes of God's will for peace, forgiveness, and justice.  Secondly, the kevlar armor of your cloak is love.  Love both protects you and guides you and your ministry.  In short, align your action with your belief. Thirdly, practice the Way of Christ in all aspects of your life and do so in collaboration with God and with other believers, listening to and strengthening your bonds with each other and with God. Finally, celebrate your faith and be indebted to your savior.

Pray

Pray that you will wear the robes of your faith, hallowing the Father.  Pray prayers of intervention, lament, confession, and repentance.  Pray for Devine guidance and wait silently, patiently to hear the God whispers.  Pray that in whatever you do, sharing the love of God is your sole motive.