Heard the saying, “one man’s blessing is another man’s curse”? Watching reports of ice storms leaves me with mixed feelings. The Weather Channel shows this contrast regularly. Too much ice can be a death-dealing blow to a place. Just the right amount of ice can have a miraculous transforming effect. The ugly can become extremely beautiful in reflecting the sun. Everything takes on a diamond-like sparkle.
It reminds me of a spiritual lesson. The Apostle Paul several times presents Christianity in terms of “putting on Christ” as you would put on a long winter coat.
When you “put on” Christ, you have a wholly new, attractive appearance. “Put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.” (Ephesians 4:24 NIV) “Put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its creator. Above all other virtues, put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.” (Colossians 3:10,14 NIV)
The “putting on” is usually contrasted with “putting off” old traits that are not fitting for a Christian. “Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes.” (Ephesians 6:10 NIV)
A Christian could never complain, “I have nothing to wear” because our basic dress code is simple and attractive. We put on Christ and that is what the world sees.
The real person never has to practice hypocrisy. The old natural us that can be seen under the covering of Christ is a constant reminder to us not to be proud about our new beauty; it all comes from Christ.
Before this winter is over, we will awaken to a beautiful new covering over the earth many times. Let’s pray that as we go out into the world that many times people will observe in us that we are clothed in Christ.
“Transform us in your love, O God, and renew us through the power of
your Spirit. We will praise You for the miraculous transformation. Amen”
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