Community Is . . . Love
Scripture Reading — Colossians 3:12-14
And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.
Sharon is part of a community of 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 Sharon’s brother was in hospice care and she was his primary caregiver, this group supported and loved her in every way possible. And Sharon has reciprocated that love by caring for other 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 into because of Christ’s sacrifice. Followers of Christ put off their old selfish ways and put on all the new virtues they can have because of Christ. And over all of those things we are called to put on love, which pulls everything else together. Unconditional love is essential and integral to community.
Father, help us show your love for others and experience others’ love in our communities. For Jesus’ sake, Amen.
About the author — Bret Lamsma
Bret Lamsma is director of faith formation at a church in Denver, Colorado, and has served churches in Michigan and California in youth, inter-generational, and educational ministries. Bret and his wife, Julie, have two children, and he enjoys hiking, camping, and visiting national parks with his family.
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