First ReadingColossians 1:24—2:3
From the Letter of Paul to the Colossians
24Now I rejoice in my sufferings for your sake,and fill up on my part thatwhich is lacking of the afflictions of Christ in my flesh for his body’s sake,which is the assembly,25of which I was made a servant according to the stewardship of Godwhich was given me toward you to fulfill the word of God,26the mystery which has been hidden for ages and generations.But now it has been revealed to his saints,27to whom God was pleased to make known what are the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles,which is Christ in you,the hope of glory.28We proclaim him, admonishing every manand teaching every man in all wisdom,that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus;29for which I also labor,striving according to his working,which works in me mightily.
1For I desire to have you know how greatly I struggle for youand for those at Laodicea,and for as many as have not seen my face in the flesh;2that their hearts may be comforted,they being knit together in love,and gaining all riches of the full assurance of understanding,that they may know the mystery of God,both of the Father and of Christ,3in whom all the treasures of wisdomand knowledge are hidden.