Day 227: Psalms 99-101; Romans 13

"Clothe yourselves in the Lord Jesus Christ..." (Romans 13:14)

This expression of Paul's is not uncommon in his writings. We know that his religious background includes an intimate understanding of the Torah and a zeal to defend and enforce it (check out the summary of his religious credentials in Philippians 3:5-6). He would have been intimately familiar with the involved religious apparel of priestly service. No doubt, clothing oneself in priestly garb had no impact on heart change. This is the essence of his testimony that follows: all of that is refuse compared to knowing Jesus with a deep intimacy (Philippians 3:7-14). When you 'put on' (CSB), 'wrap yourself in' (The Voice), 'immerse yourself in' (The Passion Translation) the LORD [Sovereign and Supreme I AM] Jesus [Yahweh is our Salvation, the Son of Man] Christ [Messiah, Anointed One, Son of God] there is no way your heart stays the same. Everything changes starting from the inside out. Paul knew this by personal experience. You also cannot deny that what you clothe yourself in is what people see. If Jesus has changed my heart, He has changed how I live and it will show.

At the funeral service of my retired pastor-friend, Rich, I was reminded of this truth. He never achieved fame, or even recognition, as a highly 'successful' pastor. Nothing stood out about his career to people who measure success in numbers and positions. He was, however, faithful. He prayed. He loved people for Jesus. He clothed himself with Jesus and in a sanctuary filled with people, person after person, pastor and laity, stood up to testify to this truth. Yes, wrap yourself in Jesus and wear Him well.