As temperatures plummet in Minnesota, my daughter and I find ourselves rummaging through closets, pulling out winter coats, scarves, and mittens. Each layer we don becomes essential, not just for warmth but as a symbol of preparation for the season ahead. Much like dressing thoughtfully for the cold, Advent (this season in the church calendar) invites us to prepare for Christ’s coming by considering the spiritual “clothing” we wear each day.
Scripture describes this daily wardrobe beautifully: “As God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience. . . . if anyone has a complaint against another, forgive each other. . . . Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony” (Colossians 3:12-14).
Love is the ultimate garment—the one that unites and completes the rest. God first clothes us in this holy outfit, tailored by grace. Each day, we are called to “put it on” anew, shaping how we speak and act toward one another. The writer of Colossians offers a vivid image of dressing for the day, piece by piece, with love at the center.
Compassion: The Undergarments of the Heart
Compassion, like undergarments, is worn closest to our core. It touches our innermost parts, moving us deeply when we encounter others’ suffering. Compassion stirs us to comfort and care for each other in our distress.
Humility: Socks That Keep Us Grounded
The socks of humility keep us grounded, reminding us to walk side by side with all God’s creatures. Humility prevents us from elevating ourselves above others or looking down on them. It roots us in companionship and an awareness of our shared life on this earth.
Meekness: Shoes for Gentle Steps
Over the socks, we slip on the shoes of meekness. These shoes guide us to walk gently, treading lightly on the earth and speaking softly with others. Meekness trusts in God’s care when things go awry and helps us respond to frustrations with grace rather than force.
Patience: Pants for Endurance
The pants of patience equip us to endure challenges without losing heart. They help us wait when prayers go unanswered or when circumstances fall short of expectations. Patience slows us down, tempers annoyance, and keeps us walking alongside those who struggle.
Forgiveness: The Sweater That Warms and Covers
Over it all, we wrap ourselves in the sweater of forgiveness. This sweater shields us from bitterness and retaliation. Forgiveness encourages us to let go of offenses, engage in honest conversations, and seek reconciliation. It frees us from the weight of lingering pain, covering us in grace.
Peace: Gloves for Healing Hands
Finally, we put on the gloves of peace. These gloves guide our hands to reach out, connect, and heal rather than harm. They help us to seek understanding in moments of disagreement, to see others in the best light, and to approach them with a willingness to reconcile.
Together, these garments make up the outfit of love, preparing us to reflect God’s grace in our lives and relationships. Yet, sometimes, we forget a key piece. My daughter occasionally skips socks, and I’ve rushed out the door without gloves on a bitterly cold day. Aren’t we all like that—forgetting to act with some aspect of love in our daily lives?
In those moments, we can pause and remember: God has clothed us fully and gives us the grace to make amends. As we journey through Advent, let’s be mindful of our spiritual wardrobe, remembering that we are wrapped in love and preparing our hearts for the warmth of Christ’s presence in the world.