Love Center Stage
Col. 3:12 Since God chose you to be the holy people he loves, you must clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. 13 Make allowance for each other’s faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others. 14 Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds us all together in perfect harmony. 15 And let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. For as members of one body you are called to live in peace. And always be thankful.
16 Let the message about Christ, in all its richness, fill your lives…
As we traveled to the Coast, it was a prayer for the weather to change. Rain was the forecast. Thankfully everyday sun shone down upon our group. The days were much cooler and all our children and families wore their warm sweaters and jackets. The water required wetsuits for our surfing crew. So I blog about clothing…We like God are full of provision and heart love for our children and the lives they will lead. Moms call out do you have your coat? Hopeful at least a sweater, jacket, or fleece is within reach?
Our children move us to express love. We look for a horizon full of hope for their lives. John 10:10 says Christ came that we may have life and have it to the full. I have been mindful of how expressive the love of God was in the gospels through the life of Christ. He is consistently helping others, pouring out, breathing life into, captivating awe, directing glory to the Father, healing, forgiving, saving, Christ is love.
I am convinced we must live out our lives full robust with expression of this love. Jesus wasn’t fearful of sinners, of association with hurting or dying or grief stricken people- His goodness embraced our humanity. His warm love buffered the cold hardships in the world around Him. His peace prevailed every storm He was ever in. He intends to make our hearts and lives His home letting His peace saturate our lives. It is not a fleeting momentary truth. His peace and love are foundational to all who call Him LORD. His hope fills my soul.
As the summer fades to fall, and the glory of fall surrounds, the beauty of the trees dying- loosing their green brilliant in flame colored beauty- reminds me that when I loose my life- I glorify Christ. The cold air fills our nights, we are reminded to wear knits, coats, and layer up, to bring the warmth our bodies require. As you and I dress ourselves practically, let us also put on Christ’s love. A love that denies self, and glorifies God. A love patient, full of mercy, a love that bears what comes, and rejoices in righteousness. A love that never fails. Our winter coats wear out. Our sweaters fade, but the love of Christ is ever brighter and warmer as He appears loving through each one of us. Grace woven in mercy is the life of Christ- Jesus clothe me in this life!
