Serving with Kindness | Part Seven
We are continuing to explore the deep roots of the kindness of the Triune God which will inform our human commitment to “Serving with Kindness”
Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.[1]
These are big requirements! They are introduced with the word “Therefore…” This means we are to consider these demands in the light of all that Paul has written in the first half of his letter.
In summary: Christ is preeminent in all places, at all times, over all people and all circumstances. He has brought His people from death to new life; from darkness to light.
So once again, we see the foundation is determined by the nature and actions of God, not isolated human effort.
All the virtues listed here are embodied perfectly in Jesus; they come as a package.
Paul has carefully placed these words into pairs; firstly, the virtue that arises from who God is and then the consequent human behaviour that arises from a heart transformed by Christ.
Compassionate hearts, lead to kindness. Compassion is the nature of God. As we understand and experience God’s undeserved compassion, grace and mercy, we reflect that truth through our kindness.
Humility is the nature of Jesus who comes to engage with us. We in no way deserve to be “chosen, holy and dearly loved.” However, knowing that acceptance through Jesus’ humility, will cause us to be people who are gentle and tender.
Patience is linked with forgiveness. Just think about how patient God has been with us. Knowing that truth, we will live in forbearance and forgiveness in relation to others.
The way we live and relate is always in direct proportion to our grasp of His grace.
So compassionate hearts lead to expressions of kindness; humility leads to expressions of gentleness; and patience leads to forgiveness. Wrapping all these things together, Paul reminds us, “And over all these virtues put on love which binds them all together in perfect unity.”
“Serving with Kindness” is no small thing.
Blessings
Brian
[1] Colossians 3:12-14