The Trees and My Duds

 

 As I sat outside on my deck, I laid my head back and gazed upwards.  I took in all the bare branches of the many trees and I thought, “I am so ready for you trees to get dressed.”  I’m ready for them to don their new outfits of spring colored flowers followed by the finest of green leaves.  A few of my trees have the beginnings of buds, telling me they are getting ready for the runways of the land.

 

I dream of the trees getting dressed and I ponder. . .how did I dress myself this morning?  The proverbs 31 woman comes to mind as being clothed in strength and dignity.  I look down at myself this morning and think I do not look very dignified in my pajama bottoms and big baggy shirt;)

 

And then I think of that other suit mentioned in the Bible, the full armor of God.  Did I put on the belt of truth, the breast plate of righteousness, are my feet filled with readiness that comes from the gospel of peace?  Am I taking up the shield of faith and did I put on the helmet of salvation?  Am I holding the sword of the Spirit.  I look down at my Bible and think yes, I am holding it, in lap and heart.  After 38 years of being His Child, I can say, “Yes”, I am dressed properly.  There are times, when I need to take a look in the mirror and adjust some of my clothing, but because I am His completely, I am dressed properly.  Do I always look strong and dignified?  I don’t think so, and those are the times I need to adjust that shield on my breast, check my shoes, and make sure the belt is bucked properly. 

 

When I began making my trips to the pond, my suit had become loosened, baggy, and not in good shape.  I had become weak, with the breath knocked out of me because of choices and actions from some around me.  But the Lord met me each time, tightening up that belt, straightening the breast plate and getting my feet ready for a ministry I didn’t see coming.

 

My strength became stronger each day.  My strength comes from the Lord, I know this full well, so I never take His suit off.  I pray as each day passes, dignity will grow in me for I want His light to shine through me and only with His clothing line can I even begin to be robed in dignity.  This clothing is not just about wearing but applying.  I learn as I wear. 

 

Again, I look down at my baggy clothing donned only for my bed and deck and smile as to how I would look to you all right now.  But as the trees prepare for their new clothing, I prepare each day to come into His presence with my heart open and robed in love. I’m so thankful that my heart is more important to Him than my outer clothing.  Thank you my Lord! 

 

But when I come to town, I will put on some real clothes for you all. . .if you call blue jeans and a sweatshirt real clothing.

 

The suit of armor drawn by my son at age 15