When my nephew was accepted into the college he really wanted to attend, the first thing he did was buy a sweatshirt bearing the school’s name, logo, and colors. He wore it proudly everywhere he went. Since then he’s acquired an entire wardrobe of university-themed items, from socks to hats, shorts to ties. Everyone can clearly and immediately see where he belongs.

“Therefore, as God’s chosen ones, holy and dearly loved, put on compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience,” (Colossians‬ ‭3‬:‭12,‬ ‭CSB)‬‬

When I accepted Jesus’s gift of salvation, I became a follower of Jesus. I belong with Jesus. I was adopted into His family. I was made holy. And I am dearly loved.

Instead of school colors, God has some important items for me to wear. They aren’t made of cotton, wool, or polyester. They aren’t stitched, sewn, or printed.

As God’s dearly loved and holy child, I am to wear the family character traits of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. I must pull these on every morning so that people know whose I am and where I belong.

Dear God, remind me to put on our family colors every morning. Show me when my hat of compassion has slipped or my shirt of patience has become worn and stained. Forgive me for choosing to remove my sweater of humility from time to time. Dress me fully in your love today so I am a beacon for your kingdom in all my interactions.