Our Calling as Chosen Ones

I have been struck lately by how confused we often seem to get about our duty as Christians. 

It's so easy to forget the simple things, to get lost in the great debates about the so many issues pressing Christians today. 

Have you ever felt this way? That, perhaps, in our mad rush to figure everything out, we have actually forgotten the most important things? 

It's so good to be reminded of what God says is so important for His chosen children to remember, to do, to be.

Colossians 3:12 says, "Put on then, as God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience."

Compassion hearts. Not just to those who are easy to love or just certain groups, but toward everyone. 

Kindness. Not to just those who agree with us but to everyone. We never know what people are going through. We never know what brave smiles and cheerful words are hiding a very lost, hurting, broken spirit. We never know if those who seem to be doing the most good in the world are actually the ones aching from loneliness and wanting just once for someone to do good by them.

Humility. Not considering ourselves but considering others. Rejoicing when they are lifted up, even if we are forgotten or ignored.

Meekness. Remembering others. Remembering that we do not always have to prove a point or even defend ourselves if it will stir up ungodly anger. That sometimes being right at the top of our voice is actually wrong. Striving for godly peace rather than allowing ourselves to be carried away with the wrath of man that, as James says, does not produce the righteousness of God. 

Patience. Bearing with one another in love. Biting our tongue on a loved one's bad day and showing the same grace we would want to be shown. Not losing our temper at the broken china or muddy footprints. 

We are called to be set apart. While the world is aflame with angry words, hot tempers, mindless accusations, and screams of division, we are to be the peace, the love, the grace that shows the world we are different.

We are the chosen ones.