A reading from the letter of Paul to the Colossians.

Because you are God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, clothe yourselves with heartfelt mercy, with kindness, humility, meekness and patience. Bear with one another; forgive whatever grievances you have against one another.  Forgive as you have been forgiven.  Over all these virtues put on love, which binds the rest together and makes them perfect.  Christ’s peace must reign in your hearts, since as members of the one body you have been called to that peace.  Dedicate yourselves to thankfulness.  Let the Word of Christ, rich as it is, dwell in you.  In wisdom made perfect, instruct and admonish one another.  Sing gratefully to God from your hearts in psalms, hymns and inspired songs.  Whatever you do, whether in speech or in action, do it in the name of Christ Jesus.  Give thanks to God through Christ.

You who are in relationships, be submissive to each other.  This is your duty in Christ Jesus.  Lovers, love each other.  Avoid any bitterness between each other.  Children, obey those responsible for you in everything as the acceptable way in the Most High.  And if you are responsible for children, do not nag them, lest they lose heart.

The Word of God recorded in the letter of Paul to the Colossians.