Devotional - June 4, 2025
Scripture: Revelation 22: 14 “Blessed are those who wash their robes, that they may have the right to the tree of life and may go through the gates into the city.
Of all the things I had to learn as I grew, washing clothes was something I excelled at. Not sure why, I just enjoyed the process. Using different kinds of soaps, temperatures of water, stain removers, and softeners ...that's right I use softeners, really challenged me. Learning to use bleach in a way that did not ruin my clothes was a definite must. I got pretty good at it. And when my wardrobe could fit in a suitcase and one hang-up bag, it was also necessary. Try as I may, I could not keep my garments clean. That splash of BBQ sauce, mud from the sidewalk, drip of something I didn't even see running down my back. And the signature spot that always appeared on my shirt about half way down the front after a meal. Never failed. What came next was up to me, and you too. Do you throughout the garment, spray everything under the sink on the spot and wash the heck out of it, or do you learn what will work to remove the stain and wash it accordingly. In our text today, we are told that those who wash their robes (lives) in accord with the teachings of Jesus Christ will be happy. They will partake in the life provided by our Lord Jesus Christ and will dwell in the Kingdom of God. Sounds too good to be true, it isn't. Some of us, as we look back over our life, we see a lot of dirt and stain. To what degree, I'll leave that with you, but being willing to see the need for cleansing is the key (Luke 5:32, Romans 3:23). Being willing to ask forgiveness of God and others, and yes of ourselves, is where it all begins (1 John 1:9). Being willing to change our minds and grow in the teachings of Christ comes next (Romans 12: 2, Matthew 4:17). These are the cycles the Spirit uses to wash your life clean when we give our life to Christ. It's a humbling experience, but being humble allows for peace and freedom. There is no need to hide or cover things anymore, even if it means coming clean in front of the people we deceived. There is no need to lie as Adam and Eve did before God and each other. So many of us panic thinking, what will people think if they know. Let them! Do you want to spend the rest of your life running and hiding, ...lying, or do you want to receive the blessing entailed in this verse? By the way, the blessing does not come after you die, it starts now with the washing and is experienced before you pass from this life. It also makes you more loving. When I see someone who also bears that central stain on their shirt as they walk out of the restaurant or other public place, because that is where it always happens. I say under my breath, "wear it proud, you are not the only one! When you get home, use the right combination of washing techniques to remove it, because all is not lost." Once washed, their shirt will be good as new. Will some still remember the old robe you used to wear, yes. If that is what they want to dwell in, let them have it. You live with Christ in what has been washed, partaking in what has been promised.
Pray with me, ...Holy God, we are renewed in Your grace and mercy. Give us the strength and encouragement to continue to wash our robes, our lives, in the salvation You provided us through Jesus Christ. Slow us down, calm our fears, so we can hear Your word that gives us eternal life. Hear us as we pray for our loved ones, bless them we pray in accord with their needs. And bless our church, so we can be the blessing You call us to be, in Jesus name, Amen,
God's peace,
Pastor Brian
