Entering the final months of the year is always an exciting, yet humbling time. Most people finally feel the chance to take a deep breath and enjoy the slower things in life like sipping coffee on your back porch and reminiscing on another busy year.

While the time spent thinking back on wins and joyful moments throughout the year is the exciting part, I often find myself humbled when I compare my life to the characteristics and qualities of Jesus displayed in Colossians 3.

“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 as the Lord forgave you. And over all these put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity. Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.” – Colossians 3:12-15

How many times this year did we forget we're all God’s holy and dearly loved people? Did we forget our patience and kindness in moments of stress throughout the year? I know I have, in situations of stress and in months or weeks that felt more overwhelming than others. 

My hope and prayer, for us as Christians, and all those around us, is to remember this verse as we wrap up our year.

May we remember to forgive, even when it seems hard. When we face division and conflict, my hope is we put on love and be reminded of our unity in Christ. Overall, let us be thankful for this life we were given and allow Christ to give us the time and strength to dwell in his love.

Written by Emily Ayars, engagement manager for Buckner Shoes for Orphan Souls®.