Today’s Scripture: Colossians 3:12

12 As God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience. (NRSV)

Hand me down clothes are a blessing to many parents. I was always excited when my friends passed clothes down to my son.  Hand me downs come from Jesus also. He wore these “clothes.” Let’s dress in the wardrobe God picked out for us.

Artwork by Anna Grace Howe

I know what you’re thinking. You want to pick out your own clothes. You don’t want anyone else telling you what to wear. You haven’t had anyone lay out your clothes for you since you were a little child. But remember—this isn’t your mother commanding you to get dressed. This is God. You have to make the decision about whether or not you’re going to put on these clothes.

New clothes (new to you) will make you feel differently. They can even make you act differently. There is the saying “Clothes make the person.” Here are the clothes God hands down to us.

Put on Caring. This is kindness, compassion, humility, gentleness, and patience.

Put on Forgiveness.  We are all fighting the same misunderstandings and grievances. We need to remember this and forgive each other.

Put on Gratitude.  Be thankful every day for all we have.

Put on the Word.  Be thankful for the Bible and its teachings.

Put on Love.  It is not an accessory. It is not an afterthought. It is an attitude. You may be able to wear these other clothes without love, but eventually they will chafe on you so badly that you will have to get rid of them.

Put on Peace.  Rest and security is necessary and God demonstrates this often.

Wear hand me downs from God proudly.