Nougat 1

In less than a day, many Western Christians will observe the beginning of the most solemn season, Lent. In many traditions, this involves a stripping away of the weights and being more intentional about spending time with Jesus. Whether it’s your practice or not, today’s Holy Nougat challenges us to live our faith boldly. Will we?

“Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds us all together in perfect harmony.” ‭‭Colossians‬ ‭3:14‬ ‭NLT‬‬

It is said that ‘clothes makes the wo/man’ which suggests that the way we dress informs how we are perceived. There is merit to that, as many prospective employees will attest. Likewise, we can determine the profession of some people by their dress. Should it not be the same for us believers?

Paul argues, Yes!

And his choice of ‘uniformity’ is Love. Not the fuzzy, ‘butterfly-in-the-stomach’ variety; but the steady demonstrations that reminds us and others that we belong to God. For Paul, this is The Ultimate way to demonstrate Who receives our trust and allegiance, in a world that does not treasure people for themselves.

The irony is, if we were to truly ‘wear’ Love as a uniform, we set ourselves up for pain and even betrayal. For, Jesus redefines Love so it includes those who are in opposition to us; who persecute us and make our lives miserable. And that’s not always easy!

Moreover, if we, rather – when we wear Love like a professional uniform; it means that we are ‘Open for Business’; we are ready to meet the love needs of the hurting, the crying, the desolate, the ill, the drunken, the self-abusing, the abuser, the stubborn, the annoying, the hater, the unfair, the arrogant AND ourselves – warts and all.

This is not about overlooking the wrong we or others do; but it is about affirming God’s presence in someone whether we’re acting that way or not. It’s about choosing to bury the hurt without seeking vengeance (no matter if retaliation is deserved). It’s about sometimes choosing to place others before ourselves. It’s about taking the time for someone else despite our busy schedule.

Paul believes that these actions point to Christ; Who, while in Heaven, opted to come to earth for each of our sakes so we could have access to Heaven’s glory even here on earth.

Of course, if wearing Love, selfless Love that is, points to Christ; then in so doing, we are also putting Christ on; so that He might deepen that Love for others within us. It may be uncomfortable at times; but God’s Love is one garment that fits all every single time.

Since clothes makes the wo/man; let’s wear Christ’s Love at all times.

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May all we seek be found in Christ