A friend shared a devotional based on Colossians 3:12-15 using this pneumonic to help me remember traits mentioned in these verses.

Colossians 3:12-15 NIV

[12] Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with Compassion , Kindness, Humility, Gentleness and Patience. (emphasis mine). [13] Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. [14] And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity. [15] Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace

And be thankful.

Working together with you all on my first Fuller Center Bike Adventure allowed me to see so many of these virtues lived out before my eyes showing me what the body of Christ looks like functioning as God designed it.

These verses stressed to me the importance of remembering who I am and whose I am. I am God’s child and am holy, (set apart), and dearly loved. Life changing words that have helped me through some rough patches in life. Next, I am reminded to ask God to help me get dressed each morning; because I need the power of the Holy Spirit to help me put on each virtue especially when I don’t have it to give in my own strength.

I saw compassion extended to a homeless man sleeping on the concrete outside our door. He was given breakfast and use of the facilities we enjoyed. I saw kindness given by a retired nurse to riders involved in bike accidents. She was the “wife” and advocate for them when they couldn’t speak clearly for themselves. I was touched by the humility demonstrated as each person tied a rag on another as a reminder of how Christ turned our filthy rags of sin to white as snow through the forgiveness he extended us through his death and resurrection. And lastly I saw patience given to so many who struggled to keep up and to those “dropping into” the ride following injury.

I saw daily bearing with one another as we learned to get along and forgiveness extended after disagreements. And most of all, I saw love for each other grow as it bound us together in a unified team as we worked together helping the less fortunate rebuild their lives as we rebuilt their roofs, painted their home, and organized their kitchens.

Thankfulness ruled! Well done Fuller Center team!