These are three words that sum up Jesus’ take on a very important question as the school year begins.
A college student recently posted (tongue-in-cheek) on social media, two great problems facing her and her friends as they prep for school:
- Having nothing to wear
- Having no room left in her closet
I know the young lady and can verify that she is blessed with a closet full of lovely things to wear. But what she says teasingly, many say very seriously. The subject of costuming for today’s world is a very real concern for young people trying desperately to find their place in a confusing world. And worse; the question of what to wear may be symptomatic of their perceived need for many other things they think they will need to fit in at work or college.
Truth be told, it is not just the younger person who falls prey to the need to dress better than others or live in better surroundings, or drive something cooler than the neighbors. Keeping up with the Jones’ has been going on since time began.
Jesus well-knew that we would always be tempted to participate in the race to be a fashion statement. And He also realized our commitments to Him and the spread of His gospel would preempt our drive to preen our collective feathers on anyone’s runway. His words, “…Consider the lilies”, are tantamount to His own guarantee that our needs would be met. He will bring out our natural attractiveness in ways that do not rely on the latest fashions. Our character and grace will overshadow clothes that may be a bit tired or dated. The personality He has developed in us will render the finest clothing simple window dressing for the sterling qualities of Christlikeness others will see in our lives. And by the way; you WILL have something appropriate to wear. J
Yep…”Consider the lilies”. Now that is a promise we can live with!
Trusting in His goodness,
Richard Orrell, Pastor
