DAY 38: Selflessness

Who Does God Love?

Colossians 3:[1-11], 12-17

…In that renewal there is no longer Greek and Jew, circumcised and uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave, and free; but Christ is all and in all!


Colossians 3:11 refers to barbarians, Scythians, and others as mentioned above. Barbarians were those who did not speak Greek, and Scythians were considered uncivilized and savage. Paul, as he wrote, was emphasizing how far-reaching God's grace is in Christ.

We choose the company we keep, but we do not choose everyone that Christ sacrificed himself for. This text challenges us to expand our vision of welcomeness and tolerance. There are no boundaries or barriers for Christ's love. "…Christ is all and in all!" In fact, Christ's love often leads us to where we feel least comfortable, with those who are different and even with those whose worthiness and value we question. We are challenged to show compassion, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience to the entire world.


In today's world and society, which people do I find the most difficult to accept and care for? Why is that?


Prayer:
Lord Jesus, open my heart and mind to all people, that I might accept everyone you have accepted into your heavenly kingdom. Amen


Action step:
Volunteer some time at a local mission that feeds or houses people who might sometimes make you feel uneasy.

contributed by Matthew Nelson