Today we read Colossians 3. People have to work together. But the heart of the old nature is to seek personal advantage, which causes frustration, resentment, and violence. Paul urges us to resist this temptation, no matter what our calling in life may be. Resistance becomes a reality when we live by faith “in the Son of God, who loved [us] and gave Himself for [us]” (Galatians 2:20). In Christ, we know that we will not miss out on anything. • Lord, lead us to spend our lives in loving service for You and others, for You have so dearly loved us. Amen.

Various Authors. The Lutheran Study Bible (pp. 10345-10346). (Function). Kindle Edition.

Today we read Colossians 2. The Christian faith will not be replaced by man-made religion. Over the centuries, many have claimed to have found a substitute for Christ and His forgiveness… Sometimes these ideas are very impressive, and the lifestyles they conceive become extremely popular. But St Paul wrote, “Let God be true though every one were a liar” (Romans 3:4). These waves of man-made religion always end up breaking apart upon God’s truth in Jesus, who “is the same yesterday and today and forever.” • Thank You, Lord, for granting me faith and preserving my faith with the wisdom and substance of Christ. Amen.

Various Authors. The Lutheran Study Bible (p. 10342). (Function). Kindle Edition.

Today we start reading a new book of the New Testament, Paul’s letter to the Christian congregation in Colossae. *** All people suffer because of the fallen nature of the world. But Christians are called to a special form of suffering for the sake of Christ: rejection, ridicule, and persecution. No one likes suffering. Nevertheless, the tears of Christian suffering reflect the glory of the cross of Christ. Remember how God used Christ’s sufferings to save us. He will also use our sufferings to bring Christ’s saving work to others who have no hope. Amen.

Various Authors. The Lutheran Study Bible (p. 10337). (Function). Kindle Edition.

Today we read Philippians 4. Paul’s last words in the Letter are greetings and blessings. Contrast Paul’s concern for greeting all and extending grace with our unwillingness to greet people in our own church communities. The grace of the Lord Jesus is so abundant that it flows over from Paul to us through this very Word and has the power to overflow from our lives into the lives of others, so that we genuinely greet and then extend God’s grace. • O give thanks to the Lord for His abundant grace! May His grace come continually to us and through us to others. Amen.

Various Authors. The Lutheran Study Bible (p. 10298). (Function). Kindle Edition.