reasons of the heart
"Because you are God's chosen ones..." —Colossians 3:12
Because we are chosen by God, we are holy and beloved (Col 3:12). Because we are holy and beloved, we can cover ourselves with mercy, kindness, humility, meekness, long-suffering, and forgiveness (Col 3:12-13). Then, by God's grace, we can cover this covering of virtue with the covering of love (Col 3:14). "Above all, let your love for one another be constant, for love covers a multitude of sins" and a multitude of virtues (1 Pt 4:8). Covered in virtue and love, obviously "peace must reign in your hearts" (Col 3:15).
Under these circumstances, we dedicate ourselves to thankfulness (Col 3:15). Therefore, "sing gratefully to God from your hearts in psalms, hymns, and inspired songs. Whatever you do, whether in speech or in action, do it in the name of the Lord Jesus. Give thanks to God the Father through Him" (Col 3:16-17).
We have reason to be thankful. Christ's peace is the reason. We have reasons to be peaceful. Virtue and love are the reasons. We are capable of being virtuous and loving because we are holy and beloved. We are holy and beloved because God has chosen us.
Thank You, Lord, for Your love and grace.
Prayer: Father, give me Your heart and mind.
Promise: "To you who hear Me, I say: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you; bless those who curse you and pray for those who maltreat you." —Lk 6:27-28
Praise: Bill devotes many hours a week to transporting the blind, the handicapped, and the elderly. He helps them purchase groceries and tells them about the love Jesus has for them.
Rescript: †Most Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Auxiliary Bishop, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, March 18, 2015
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