So, are you dressed today? Did you get up and put on your clothes this morning?

I asked my fourth graders this question last year one day when they were being particularly nasty to one another. Then I read to them this passage:

"Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity."
Colossians 3:12-14

This became our passage for the year and when I heard them being mean, I would say, "Hey, did you get dressed this morning?" So it didn't really work all that well, as anyone who saw my classroom last year can attest to, but the idea is wonderful. I can say that because it was not mine. A guy by the name of Scott challenged a whole group of us a couple years ago with this passage. It is so important for ministry...but also, just for daily life. I read this passage this evening and was humbled because I realized that I had not gotten dressed today...I was not loving people and I was certainly not patient with those around me. Thankfully, we are forgiven and tomorrow is a new day...so, reminder to you and I...don't forget to get dressed!!