Sometimes the simplest idea can be, well, profound. Our church is in the midst of a series called "Simple Summer" where each week we hear a different message about the simplicity of living out our faith. In fact, the very concept of faith in God, through Jesus, is so simple that many people just can't grasp it. Simple worship is just that - adoring and praising the Creator and recognizing His sovereignty in our lives on a daily basis. So what does that have to do with clothes?
The Apostle Paul wrote most of the New Testament, and his many letters to the different churches are chock full of wisdom...like what to wear. In Colossians 3, he basically says "clothe yourself in the fruit of the Spirit." Now, if my mind is feeling lofty and esoteric, I can envision this as a totally spiritual concept that must take many hours of contemplation to figure out exactly what it means to clothe myself in kindness, forgiveness, mercy and love. But I recently saw a message by Jud Wilhite that reduced this to a simple concept even a preschooler can understand. That is...what are you wearing today?
Most of us want to look good when we are out in public or going to work, right? How many of you have asked a spouse or friend "does this look okay?" about your outfit. Of course you have. Sometimes you get the gentle nod to make a wardrobe correction. Maybe some of you (ladies) are chronic clothes changers - trying on many combinations until the right one is found. So you've got this picture of how we plan, coordinate and choose our clothes each day, for each occasion. As concerned as we can be about this outward appearance, are we choosing how we clothe our mind and heart in the same way? Are we wearing rage, greed, envy, and unforgiveness as we go to our jobs or run our household? Or, are you grabbing that shawl of kindness and that jacket of mercy? Are you more concerned about today's fashion, or do you want to wear God's timeless fashion?
It's all a question of our focus - it's really that simple. Are we focusing on ourselves, or on others? On "me" or on the One who created me? There is simplicity and freedom in choosing the virtues Paul talks about because in choosing kindness, love, mercy and forgiveness we are ultimately choosing to trust in God's great sovereign power to take care of business; this leaves us free to love one another. It's as simple as, well, what are you gonna wear today?
