Dressed for the holidays

It’s that time of year when you dress up for Christmas programs, concerts, and parties.
In one of his daily e-devotions, retired pastor
Dale Vander Veen reminds me of some apparel that’s always in season and should always
be worn regardless of the occasion.

“Therapy”

Occupational therapy. Recreational therapy. Massage therapy. Cognitive behavioral therapy. Anger management therapy. Holistic therapy. Hydrotherapy. Psychotherapy. Group therapy. Physical therapy. Aromatherapy. Magnetic therapy.

A large clothing store suggested… apparel therapy. When you’re down, buy a gown. When you’re blue, get something new. How about hair therapy? When I’m blue, get a new do. (Note: Not recommended for men like me who lack the necessary raw material.)

God recommends apparel therapy. When I loathe, I should clothe. When I mess up, I should dress up. What shall I wear today? In one of his richest epistolary gems, Paul parades this collection on the fashion walkway. I can clothe myself with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, patience, forgiveness, peace, thankfulness, wisdom, and singing (humming suggested as a sensitive substitute). Nothing flashy, nothing faddish. Always seasonable, always reasonable. Someone next to you wears the same outfit? Thank God and move a little closer!

And did you notice? All pieces of “The Classic Collection” mix and match to perfection. I can wear the entire wardrobe every day – and never appear out-of-date. Above all, I must not forget the final touch. “Over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.”

…With the prayer that today you will find your heart therapy
in the wardrobe of Jesus.
–