“The Spirit and the bride say, “Come!” And let the one who hears say, “Come!” Let the one who is thirsty come; and let the one who wishes take the free gift of the water of life.”
Revelation 22:17/NIV
During my teenage years, when going to church, I recall almost everyone dressed very nicely – men with suits and ties and women wearing fashionable dresses. I’m guessing there was a dress code of sorts. Back then, I sadly observed a teenager being turned away from church because he was wearing shorts. A man wearing a suit and tie became judgmental and determined the youngster was dressed inappropriately. He told the spiritually thirsty teen seeking “the truth” to go home, change into more appropriate attire, and come back. He left the church that day, and I never saw him again.
When I read about Jesus Christ in the Bible, I see He met people where they were and how they were dressed. He did not scorn or criticize people for their clothes or appearance. He always sought someone to help, heal, feed, encourage, mentor, teach, and save! What a role model! Genuine through-and-through and certainly not superficial! When Jesus met people as they were, He demonstrated kindness and encouragement! He didn’t worry about the way they looked. He worried about their well-being! He worried about their soul! He worried about their eternal life!
Much of humanity carries a burden and is unsure where to turn to receive help and relief from their concerns! Jesus Christ said: “come to me, all you who are tired and are carrying heavy loads. I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28/NIV). When the world turns us away because of who we are or how we’re dressed, the Master (Jesus Christ) does not! He tells us to bring Him our burdens, concerns, heartaches, and feelings of defeat! As salvation through Jesus Christ is achieved, we are assured of “rest” with Him in eternity – a break from earthly torments!
We should be on the lookout for people who carry heavy burdens. These weary souls may be “thirsty for the free gift of the Water of life” (Jesus). In retrospect, the young lad who showed up for church wearing shorts should have been welcomed and not turned away. He was thirsty for knowledge of Jesus Christ and should have been ushered in and embraced, just as the Master would have. Great consideration for humanity! Do you know of any spiritually thirsty souls? Tell them about the gift of the Water of life – Jesus! Good to consider!
Many blessings to you!
Unless otherwise noted, all Scripture is taken from the New American Standard Bible®, Copyright © 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission.
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