Community Reading Plan – W1D5

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Community Reading Plan | Day 5

Prayer

As you come to spend time with Jesus, calm your mind and body until you feel fully present. Thank Jesus that he came to save you!

Bible Reading: Colossians 3:11-17

Read these verses three times slowly.

Here there is no Gentile or Jew, circumcised or uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave or free, but Christ is all, and is in all. 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. Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts. And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.

Reflection & Questions

By Ken Mullette

The Civil Rights Movement in the United States was marked by a profound unity among people of diverse backgrounds, including African Americans, whites, and people of various ethnicities. Despite significant racial and cultural differences, leaders like Martin Luther King Jr. emphasized the importance of unity in fighting against systemic racism and injustice. Through peaceful protests, marches, and collective action, individuals from different walks of life united to challenge segregation laws and demand equal rights for all Americans. This unity was not without challenges, as differences in tactics and strategies sometimes caused internal friction within the movement. Nevertheless, the overarching goal of achieving civil rights and equality for all prevailed, highlighting the transformative power of unity in overcoming societal divisions and fostering positive change.

Colosse was a city with a very lucrative trade center. As a result, throughout Asia Minor, different groups of people would travel there and share their social, political, and religious differences. One of the primary reasons for Paul writing this letter was to help this struggling church in the city of Colosse with their battle against division. Paul made a point that believers should have the mindset of unity as a people in Jesus Christ and not allow the things that make them different to create division in the church. The church of Colosse was not integrating diversity well, so Paul reminded them of their faith in Christ as the unifying factor.

Rooted groups are a great place to learn about essential beliefs of the Christian faith and how to apply them to our daily lives. Rooted is one of the best things at Crossroads! If you’re new to Crossroads, Rooted is your next step. Rooted is a catalyst for life change, a discipleship experience, where discussion is held in a small group environment, creating a safe space for biblical exploration and practical learning experiences. To learn more, tap the word Rooted and let us help you get connected in community.

1. How does the message of unity in Colossians 3:11-17 challenge your views on diversity and unity within your community or church?
2. How can you actively practice compassion, forgiveness, and love in your interactions with others of different backgrounds or perspectives, both within your church community and in broader society?

Prayer

Talk to God in response to the reading today.

Worship Song

You might use this song today to worship Jesus today:

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Questions?