153: Colossians 3:12-17
Today, as we return to our regular schedule with brand new episodes, I’m offering a simple reading of Colossians 3:12-17. If you are listening in real time, we just wrapped up our first ever Circle Back series, where we returned to previous remind{h}ers that aired at some point over the last six years. In the most recent Circle Back episode, we went back to the very beginning. And in that very first remind{h}er, I referenced this same passage.
Six years later, I’d forgotten. And what’s interesting is that, in my own life recently, this passage has come to mind over and over and over again, in various different contexts and circumstances. So when I heard it once more while preparing our Circle Back series, I thought, perhaps, we’re meant to take a closer look.
I’ll have more to say in our next episode, but for now, you are invited to simply listen and notice what you notice. I wholeheartedly believe that God’s Spirit inspired the writing of Scripture thousands of years ago, and I wholeheartedly believe God’s Spirit inspires us as its readers today. So, once the reading is through, I’ll offer a few questions for reflection, as you consider the reminders God might have for you in this passage. Feel free to pause, to rewind, or even revisit as you see fit. As always, I hope it serves you well.
A reading from Colossians 3:12-17 as found in the New Revised Standard Version:
Therefore, 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 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.
This is the Word of the Lord. Thanks be to God.
Does anything stand out to you in this passage? Maybe a word, image or phrase? A feeling or a question? Take a moment to consider what that might be for you.
What do you notice about your response to this passage? Do you resonate with it? Are you bothered by it? Both can be true, or you might notice something else entirely. Take a moment to welcome and sit with your response, whatever it may be.
Now, consider your current life and circumstances. If it’s helpful, maybe even focus in on this very day. What reminder or invitation might God be offering you through these verses?
Finally, as you reflect on that reminder or invitation, what do you need from God?
Today, may we discern what it looks like to embody the heart of this passage in the world around us as we seek to be reminders of Christ’s love and presence and continue to become the people God calls and invites us to be.