And be thankful.

Colossians 3:15

Put On
Thankfulness

The simplest instructions can be challenging to follow sometimes; let us try to comprehend what Paul is encouraging us to do.

Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts: Paul is instructing us to actively allow our hearts to be guided by the peace that we received through the acceptance of Christ Jesus (the Prince of Peace). If Christ is in us, peace is the core of our lifestyle and we must begin to act peacefully especially when interacting with fellow believers.

Since as members of one body you were called to peace: We are called to be part of a spiritual body (the Church) with Christ as the head, meaning we are united as one. Irrespective of our race or social status, as Christians we are united through Christ and we strive to live peacefully, respectfully and develop love for each other.

And be thankful: We are to have a grateful spirit, meaning thanking God for every day and for the miracle of life. Our actions and speech must demonstrate, through the grace of Christ Jesus, our gratitude to God for all our spiritual blessings.

Jesus replied, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.” (Matthew 22:37)

To cultivate a grateful heart requires that we consistently seek to know God, to develop a perpetual relationship with him through his Word and prayer. Only then can we begin to acknowledge his greatness, his love for us and begin to be thankful. Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. (1 Thessalonians 5:18)

Let us “put on” an attitude of thanksgiving to all who render any service or kindness to us, and be especially thankful to members of our congregation who devote their talents and time to care for the spiritual and physical needs of the church.

Prayer: Dear God, thank you for your love and for everlasting life. Help us to hold on to the peace you have granted us through Christ Jesus who has united us in his body.  Amen.