We have all seen the little urchins playing in the dirt and trash in some poverty stricken slum.
They are so covered in grime and dirt. The smell is almost unbearable. We may see a small glimpse of their beauty when they flash a smile or blurt out a delightful squeal when they find something of value. Should one of these little ones be scrubbed, cleaned and made spotless, they are no different to any other beautiful child, that we are used to seeing, when at their best.
We are no different. When we didn’t know better, and didn’t know Christ, we are like those little grotty kids playing in the dirt. But we were called to the Kingdom of God. To enter we were to be cleaned and made spotless. Jesus has already announced that we are coming. He has made a way for us to be presented before the Throne of Grace.
Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.
Ephesians 5:1,2
Our time on Earth is our bath time.
But among you there must not be even a hint of sexual immorality, or of any kind of impurity, or of greed, because these are improper for God’s holy people. Nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk or coarse joking, which are out of place, but rather thanksgiving. For of this you can be sure: No immoral, impure or greedy person—such a man is an idolater—has any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God. Ephesians 5:3-5
Don’t be deceived…you do need a bath. Like most kids we don’t see the need for one. But when you are presented in the Royal Courts, you will realise just how unclean you were and how glad you are for having been scrubbed up. You don’t want to be dirty on THAT day.
Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of such things God’s wrath comes on those who are disobedient. Therefore do not be partners with them. Ephesians 5:6,7
As Christians we are subject to Jesus Christ who will expose any corrupt or bad thing in our lives – our dirt, our grime. He will shine a light on us to expose every bit of dirt under every crevice, wrinkle or hidden place.
For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light (for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness and truth) and find out what pleases the Lord. Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them. For it is shameful even to mention what the disobedient do in secret. But everything exposed by the light becomes visible, for it is light that makes everything visible. This is why it is said: “Wake up, O sleeper, rise from the dead, and Christ will shine on you.”
Ephesians 5:8-14
As we become clean it would be foolish to go and play out in the dirt again – yes? The scrubbing is not easy and can seem harsh at times, but clean we must be. And, who wants to go through that over and over again?! Get clean, stay clean.
Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is. Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit. Ephesians 5:15-18
It is important to note that we are not alone… there are many who are in the same bath! Have you seen kids in a bath? Sometimes it can be playful, fun, giggles abound. Other times the scrubbing is intense and we need encouragement and help when soap is in our eyes.
Speak to one another with psalms, hymns and spiritual songs. Sing and make music in your heart to the Lord, always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. Submit to one another out of reverence for Christ.
Ephesians 5:19-21
Eventually we, gathered together as the Church, will be presented before God like a Bride before her Bridegroom… spotless, scrubbed up clean and beautiful. On that day joy will abound, forever!
So let me ask you, how’s your bath coming along?