Living Lessons: August 14, 2011: Can You See the Dirt?

Jesus the Christ had a marvelous way of conveying deep spiritual truths by using stories and object lessons from the living world around Him.  As we endeavor to draw people to the foot of the cross, let us enjoy this effective style of sharing by following His example.  Read and then enjoy crafting a living lesson of your own!

Confession: Can you see the dirt?

What type of flooring do you have?  We were very encouraged by the many hands that showed up to help us move on Friday from our church family in Portland, TN and then on Saturday by our church family here in Washington.  Due to the swiftness of our hard working labor, some of our things were packed Friday without any preparation, leaving us slightly embarrassed to the number of dust bunnies still clinging to the normally hidden sides of our furniture.  When talking about the dust with one volunteer, she stated, “I’d rather have hardwood floors over carpet.  At least then I could see the dirt that I’ve got.”  Anyone who has ever removed old carpet in a home remodel knows the repulsive amount of dirt that can be hidden in the carpet pad below.  I appreciate the sentiment of the volunteer wanting to “see the dirt.”  Even though we have to do more frequent light cleaning on our new hardwood floors, at least we can see all the dirt that is there.    

Let’s face the truth; we all have dirt (sin) in our lives.  Many put an inordinate amount of effort into trying to keep their dirt hidden.  For those who follow Christ, there is an alternative to all the dirt hiding.  If we confess our sins; if we make our dirt known; if we rely on our church family to help us with our mess; God is faithful to remove the dirt.  God has even got the most powerful cleaning agent ever marketed that can remove any dirt we might have accumulated.  Jesus Christ our Lord.  With the dirt removed, we’re free to enjoy the wonderful life God has offered us.  Now that’s “good news.”

“If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”  - 1 John 1:9