The Grands Letter

Dear Grands,

Colossians 3:14-17, “And beyond all these things put on love, which is the perfect bond of unity.

15 And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body; and be thankful.

16 Let the word of Christ richly dwell within you, with all wisdom teaching and admonishing one another with psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with thankfulness in your hearts to God.

17 And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through Him to God the Father.”

Are you old enough to remember those “final reminders” your parents gave you when, say, you were off to summer camp? “Now, son, don’t act like a hog when you eat! People will notice and it will reflect on the family.” And, “Daughter, please wear your teeth retainers. I know what you think about how they look, but one day you’ll be very glad you listened to me.”

Remember things like that? Well, times haven’t changed a lot from New Testament times. Paul has just admonished the Colossian believers, telling them what to do and what not to do. But before he concludes his lecture, he says, “And beyond all these things…”; then he launches into deeper water, saying, “…put on love,” ????? (agape). Agape is godly love, love that totally resigns all “self” in the effort to aid another. What’s more, the person showing love never expects to receive anything in return. Such love bonds people like superglue!

Simultaneously, Paul urges us (as well as the Colossians) to allow the LORD’s peace to “sit as an umpire” and rule over our hearts. This is what true, pure Christianity is all about. It’s what binds us together in unity, as in the Church. It’s all the LORD’s original intention for us. We should never kick against it; we should be thankful.

Remember, too, Paul says to let the Word of Christ flow into your heart. That Word is there to teach and discipline us, along with music that warms our hearts and the heart of Almighty God as well. Such makes us thankful that we belong to Him. His Word guards our words and deeds, producing love in others. And don’t forget that it is the LORD who produces all of this within you, so be sure to tell Him “Thank You.” He will be glorified as we demonstrate His likeness.

If you remember to apply all of this to your life, you will have a glorious time at camp –and everywhere else!

Heartily in Christ Jesus,

(Dado III)

Gene L. Jeffries, Th.D.

Springdale, Arkansas 72764

United States of America

“We never know that God is all we need

until He becomes all that we have.”