Romans 13:14 Put on the Lord Jesus Christ…

It’s been almost a year since I graduated from the University of Nottingham and I was looking back at my pictures. I remember having on a white dress on the day with my black gown over it so of course, everything was fine. I wore that dress once after that and not since January because it’s so hard to rock a white dress especially because it could get soiled quickly.

I’m sure you can understand my plight. When you go to a party in a white dress or suit, or even merely having to walk in white, you become so conscious of any stain. Even being afraid to sweat in it. You always want to look clean and presentable.

Now imagine dressing a baby in white. They are not colour sensitive nor do they understand the pain of having to remove clothing stains- something detergent companies advertise too well because they understand the pain of washing. Babies throw up over it, poop, drool and even make a mess with their food, but you can’t blame them for being babies.

When we put on Christ, mature in him and are close to him, we become conscious of our garment of righteousness. When we step out into the world, we are aware of our environment. We are careful not to soil our garment or make mistakes that will leave a stain. We know how uncomfortable it will be to have to go through the day with a stained shirt or dress and we can’t do anything about it till we get home and toss it in the washing machine.

The Spirit of God teaches us to say no to unrighteousness (careless behaviors and decisions that affect our right standing with God) that will cause a stain (Titus 2:12). Also, the same Spirit teaches us not to be sin conscious because the grace of God has got us covered.

Every mother always has packed an alternative clothing for their baby. When the mess happens, it’s time to clean up. That is because a mother cares as much about her baby’s presentation as her own, for her baby is a representation of who she is. If her baby looks unkept and unclean, people will look to the mother who cares for the child.

God will always be there to look after you. You belong to him and you represent him. So if you get a stain, he has spare clothes for you, just as new, neat and beautiful.

Being all grown up and mature doesn’t mean ‘accidents’ can’t happen. It could be walking into someone holding a drink that you did not see coming, or a lady hugging you with her made-up face, or even carrying a baby. Imagine these scenarios symbolize occurrences in our spiritual walk- Lack of direction or an unfortunate event, warmly embracing our passions or even associating with an immature brethren and getting caught up in the unexpected.

We will have to wipe the stain of our garments. At that moment, any effort we try won’t be a clean job. We may have to go to the bathroom for a quick wash or wrap a scarf around the stain. But there will be a mark. However, the beauty of this is that Christ stands with you and says, “Here, have my shirt. I’ll take yours”. It’s unexpected- hardly happens. But it’s our reality in Christ because that’s the good news. He’s got us covered.

2 Corinthians 5:21 (KJV)   

For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.

 

SHALOM

 

 

Scripture Reference

Romans 13:14 New Living Translation
Instead, clothe yourself with the presence of the Lord Jesus Christ. And don’t let yourself think about ways to indulge your evil desires.

Romans 13:14 English Standard Version
But put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh, to gratify its desires.

Titus 2:12 New International Version
It teaches us to say “No” to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age,