June 17, 2006, Jerry wrote for his journal that which we chose for our book. It is based on the words from Col. 3:2-4, and 14, which says, "Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are of the earth. Above all clothe yourselves with love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony."
"In writing these words to the church, Paul is aware of the frailty of human nature. He says, (verse 8), "Don't become angry, wrathful, full of malice or slander or use abusive language. Instead show the love you've received in Jesus Christ which binds us together and heals all wounds and hurts." He says to be, "forgiving always, showing the love and forgiveness Jesus has shown you."
"Whenever the indignant responses well up in me that would tear down another, I need to call to Jesus and proclaim as Jesus did, "Get thee behind me, Satan." Satan is the temporary ruler of this world who encourages double dealing and falsehoods and comes to us to put us to shame, therefore he must be put to death in my life. Only Jesus Christ has the love that binds together and brings healing power. He is the great forgiver. Lord, May I show your love, the love that binds together your body, the church, and the love that we must show to one another, whomever the other may be. Amen."
And so life is, love given and love received, the binding together of God's people in this world. May we begin today to reach outward to those around us who do not know His love. May those, then, begin to see our Lord in everything they do, even when they are trying to hate what they see and encounter, until there is nothing left except that which we know as The Love of Christ Jesus!
Let the war against Satan's power begin and we can all be bound together in Christ Jesus.
JoINMN
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