May 7, 2026
Written by CRC
Colossians 3:12
Good morning, friend. Before the sun rises and before the world asks anything of us, let’s sit with a warm cup of coffee and breathe in the presence of God — the One who clothes us, shapes us, and gently forms our hearts to look more like His.
Today my heart is lingering inside the pages of a book I started reading — Theo of Golden by Allen Levi. I didn’t expect to be swept up so quickly, but here I am, only a day in and already in chapter 22, feeling strangely attached to an 86‑year‑old man from Portugal. I can’t quite explain it. Maybe it’s because he reminds me of my father, who’s been gone since 2004. Maybe it’s because I never knew my grandfathers. Or maybe it’s simply because Theo is the kind of man the world doesn’t seem to make enough of anymore — gentle, kind, humble, and mysteriously easy to talk to.
There’s a moment in the book where Theo describes how he came to believe in Heaven after losing his 10‑year‑old daughter. It’s tender, heartbreaking, and somehow full of light. It’s the kind of moment that makes you stop and whisper, “Lord, make me that soft. Make me that open.”
As I read, I kept thinking of Colossians 3:12:
“Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.”
What a beautiful reminder of who we are — chosen, loved, and invited to wear kindness like a garment the world can see.
Theo, in his fictional yet deeply human way, embodies this verse. He listens with patience. He speaks with gentleness. He carries humility like a quiet lantern. And he offers kindness as naturally as breathing. Something in him stirs a longing in me — a desire to be more like that. To be someone whose presence feels like a soft place to land. Someone who reflects the heart of Christ without needing to announce it.
Books like this are rare. They remind us that kindness is not outdated. Gentleness is not weakness. Compassion is not optional. These are the very threads God uses to weave His love into the world through us.
And just like starting a new Bible study or stumbling upon a verse that hits you right in the center of your chest, this book has awakened something in me — a fresh excitement, a renewed tenderness, a reminder that God often speaks through stories, characters, and moments that mirror His heart.
So today, as you step into whatever awaits you — whether it’s a long drive to Summertown, a busy day of painting, or simply the quiet tasks of ordinary life — clothe yourself intentionally. Wrap yourself in compassion. Button up kindness. Slip into gentleness. Fasten patience around your shoulders.
Let the world see Jesus in the way you move through your day.
And maybe, just maybe, be someone’s Theo.
Reflective Journaling
- What qualities in Theo resonate most deeply with me, and why do they stir something in my heart?
- Where in my life do I feel God inviting me to show more compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, or patience?
- Who has been a “Theo” in my own story — someone whose presence reflected the heart of Christ?
- How can I intentionally “clothe myself” in kindness today, in a way that is visible and meaningful?
- What part of my own story might God be using to soften me, shape me, or draw me closer to His heart?
Morning Prayer
Lord Jesus,
As I rise this morning, clothe my heart in the gentleness You modeled so perfectly.
Teach me to move through this day with compassion that notices,
kindness that lingers,
humility that listens,
and patience that breathes before it speaks.
Shape me into someone whose presence feels safe, warm, and steady —
a quiet reflection of Your love in a hurried world.
Let my words be soft, my steps be thoughtful,
and my spirit be open to the sacred moments You place in my path.
Make me more like You,
and if You will, make me a little more like Theo
tender, attentive, and full of quiet grace.
Amen.
Kindness is not something we feel — it’s something we wear.
Let it be the garment people notice first when they meet you today.
