It is not uncommon for me to stop at our local Tim Hortons for coffee on my way to church, as I did this past Sunday. While sitting in the drive-through lane I saw a young man dressed rather casually with a pair of jeans, a polo, white sneakers, nothing terribly unusual. But he was also wearing a navy sports coat. As he vaulted the guard rail around the parking lot (rather athletically) I thought, “He looks like a Youth Pastor on his way to church”. I’m not sure if that’s the case as I didn’t talk to him.
I saw a group of people, probably fifteen strong, running as a unit on the sidewalk. They were all wearing some form of Buffalo Bills clothing; sweatpants, tee-shirts, carrying flags. I’m pretty sure they were Bills fans (rather intense ones at that).
I moved further along the lane and saw a man dressed like a police officer walk up the sidewalk and in the door. I assumed that he was a police officer based on the fact that his uniform said, “Erie County Sherriff”; I’m certain that was accurate.
What we wear is often an indication of what we do. I’m sure we have all seen construction workers wearing a hard hat and other protective gear. We’ve all seen medical professionals wearing scrubs, and the previously mentioned police officers wearing badges. Those items are part of a uniform that represents the individual.
The Bible speaks of “putting off the old self” and “putting on the new” (Colossians 3:9-10). It also instructs us to “Put on the whole armor of God” (Ephesians 6:11). While these items (new self, whole armor of God) are a little more difficult to see than the other uniforms they are no less important.
A uniform serves as a reminder of a mission or purpose. Each profession has values and goals attached to its attire. Similarly, Christians are called to a purpose: to live out God’s love and share the gospel. Jesus commissioned His followers to go into the world and make disciples, giving each believer a role in His mission.
We wear the uniform of our Christianity by embodying a spirit of love, humility, and purpose that reflects Christ to the world. That involves:
Clothing Yourself in Love and Compassion
In Colossians 3:12-14, Paul encourages us to “clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience.” Just like putting on clothes each day, we can make a conscious effort to put on these virtues. Choosing kindness over harshness and patience over frustration speaks of Christ’s love and draws others toward Him.
Guarding Your Heart and Mind
Faith isn’t just something to show on the outside but something rooted deeply within. Proverbs 4:23 says, “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.” Our thoughts and attitudes reflect our faith. By filling our minds with God’s Word and spending time in prayer, we’re better prepared to represent Him in all we do.
Being Mindful of Your Actions
James 2:18 says, “Show me your faith without deeds, and I will show you my faith by my deeds.” The way we treat others, the honesty we maintain, and the way we respond to challenges are visible ways of “wearing” our faith. Even small acts of kindness or standing up for what is right can be a powerful testament.
Radiating Joy and Hope
The joy and hope we have in Christ is a unique part of our “spiritual attire.” In a world that can often be anxious or bleak, carrying a joyful spirit is noticeable. Let your joy in Christ be a natural expression of who you are; people will see it and wonder about the source of your peace.
Forgiving Freely and Letting Go of Grudges
Forgiveness is one of the most profound ways to reflect Jesus. Ephesians 4:32 urges, “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” Letting go of grudges, even when it’s hard, shows a deep commitment to living like Christ, who forgave us despite our shortcomings.
Speaking with Grace and Truth
Words are powerful, and the Bible reminds us to let our conversation be “always full of grace” (Colossians 4:6). Speak truthfully, but with gentleness and empathy, especially when faced with difficult conversations. This is a way to show respect and love for others, reflecting Christ’s own approach to speaking with those around Him.
By “wearing” Christianity each day through our attitudes, words, and actions, we become a living example of God’s love. Our faith becomes not just something we believe but something we live – a visible, active testimony to everyone we meet.