“We always thank God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, when we pray for you, because we have heard of your faith in Christ Jesus and of the love you have for all God’s people” – Colossians 1:3-4
The letter to the Colossians is one of the Apostle Paul’s most substantial writings. There are few books in the Bible with deeper reflection on who Christ is and the work of Christ in the world. Paul writes this letter to encourage the Colossians, and to remind them of all that they are because of Christ. It is a rich and deeply thought out understanding of Christ. The Book of Colossians is a short work by Paul. It is only four chapters long. I hope you will take time to read it today.
I was recently reading Colossians and a phrase stood out to me. Paul begins this letter, as he begins most, with expressions of gratitude to the recipients of his letters. On most occasions, Paul offers gratitude for a church’s faithfulness. He often expresses thankfulness for a church’s generosity. In this text, he takes a moment to state how thankful he is for “the love” that the church in Colossae has shown to “all God’s people.”
When I read this small line in the opening of the letter, I paused and wondered what Paul had heard about the Colossians that made him say, “We have heard of your faith in Christ Jesus and of the love you have for all God’s people?” What had the people done to deserve such praise? Had they been hospitable? Perhaps they had given to those in need in Colossae and beyond? Had they been intentional about judging less and living more with grace and mercy? What could the early church have done to receive such praise from the Apostle?
As I read this line from the Apostle Paul, I wondered, would Paul write the same to us today? Would Paul say the same to me? Would he praise St. Luke’s with the same words? I believe the answer is ‘yes’. We are a church committed to sharing God’s love and bringing hope to the world. I have witnessed us live out this commitment in so many wonderful ways. I am also aware that there is always work to be done, both personally and corporately. I hope today this scripture will inspire and renew us to love God and to love all of God’s people.
– Rev. Keith King, Pastor of Worship
