First UMC
Three Gifts of Christmas: Love, Peace, Truth
Colossians 3:12-17 NRSV
What is God’s part in our lives and what is our part? That is the tension we navigate.
1. God provides gifts.
2. We choose to “clothe” ourselves with them.
What are three gifts of God to help with these days?
1. Gift of love
a. Helping another person thrive is one way to define love.
b. Underlying emphasis on forgiveness.
2. Gift of peace
a. Choosing to believe the best in people.
b. Refusing to be defensive.
c. Striving to be non-anxious.
3. Gift of the Word of Christ (truth)
a. Well defined presence based on God’s word as our foundation.
b. Teach
c. Accountability
d. Gratitude and Thanksgiving
Apostle Paul said to put on the armor of Christ in Ephesians 6:10-11.
10 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his power. 11 Put on the whole armor of God, so that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.
24 and to clothe yourselves with the new self, created according to the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness.