Shocking

I think everyone was a bit shocked when the Preacher said he was going to preach a message about “underwear.” No, it was not about the special underwear one religious group wears under their clothes that gives them special powers. Rather, it was from the book of Jeremiah where God instructs Jeremiah to purchase some new underwear, wear it for a while, then hide it under a rock in a distant place. Much later, God tells him to go and get it. . .and, of course, it is rotted and ruined. . .as the Scripture says, “of no use at all.”

Everything ended well when the Preacher explained the symbolism of God’s desire that His people “cling” to Him with a fervor that borders (and reaches) on absolute obedience. While that word “absolute” gives all of us problems, it is, nonetheless, exactly what He asks for.

God’s desire is to have an intimacy with His people that goes far beyond what is normally found in the life of most Believers. That closeness is marred and damaged by the distractions of life, and the smallness of our desire to commit every portion of our heart, soul, and mind to Him without any reservations.

Can it be done? Good question. Better question: Are you even trying?

[Editor’s Note: If you wish to read the narrative from the Scripture, it is found in Jeremiah 13:1-11]