The Daily Devotional
Monday, October 14, 2024
Clothed in Compassion
Clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience. (Colossians 3:12b)
Introduction
Colossians 3:12 instructs us to "clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience." This verse serves as a divine directive for how Christians are to present themselves internally and externally in a world in need of grace and love.
Reflection
As a hospice Care Companion for veterans in Wisconsin, I witnessed firsthand the profound impact of embodying the virtues Paul describes in Colossians 3:12. Each day, as I stepped into the nursing homes where many veterans with dementia resided, I knew that my presence could be a beacon of light in their often confused and cloudy worlds.
One particular instance stands out: an elderly veteran, often lost in the fog of his memories, rarely acknowledged the staff or visitors. One afternoon, I sat beside him, silently offering my presence as a comfort. After several minutes, I gently took his hand, and, as if the touch bridged a gap in time, he looked at me with a clarity not seen in weeks. In that moment, I saw what it meant to wear the "clothes" of compassion and patience—garments that do not wear out with use but instead grow stronger, providing warmth and comfort to those who feel the coldness of isolation and the shadows of forgotten memories.
Application
Each of us can take a moment to reflect on how well we are dressing ourselves in the virtues Paul lists. Are we quick to don patience and humility when dealing with others, especially those who may not be able to express their needs clearly? In your interactions, particularly with those who are vulnerable or suffering, consider the power of a simple act of kindness or a patient, listening ear. These are the moments when the divine wardrobe we are called to wear becomes visible to the world.
Conclusion
Dressing ourselves in compassion, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience is not always easy, but it is always necessary. It is through these actions we not only obey God’s command but also actively participate in the healing and comforting of those around us, just as I experienced in the quiet afternoons spent with heroes who had borne the brunt of battles long past.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for the opportunity to serve as Your hands and feet in this world. Teach me daily to wear the spiritual garments You have designed for me—compassion, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience. Let my actions reflect Your love, especially to those who feel forgotten or alone. Help me to remember that in serving them, I serve You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Devotional by: Rev. Kenny Sallee, ThM — Deming, NM, USA
The Bible texts are from the New Revised Standard Version Bible (NRSV)© 1989, 1993, the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
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