I was with some racers from team undertow, sitting in the living room of a French volunteer here in Ecuador last week. We had talked a little about God and He asked us all the question “ Do you believe in God?” We were quick to answer yes, and both of the men shared with him how God had changed their lives. His curiosity was a divine opportunity and seeing them take a hold of it was a witness to the kingdom coming.
After a bit of time the conversation shifted, we talked about family, politics and took a walk to see his roof top view. Our friend had just gotten new shoes and was goofy about showing them off. He then took a look at our shoes…all matching in chacos. He proceeded to ask “Are you wearing those because of Jesus? Because Jesus wore sandals?” We had a good laugh and explained how chacos are multi-purposeful and a good choice to bring when you live out of a backpack.
After the laugh and after we left his living room, I couldn’t get his question out of my head “Are your sandals for Jesus”
It provoked the thought, is what I wear spiritually calling as much attention to Jesus as the shoes on my feet? Because it should be.
We are called to be set apart, to be holy.
“As obedient children, do not conform to the evil desires you had when you lived in ignorance. But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: “Be holy, because I am holy.” 1 Peter 1:14-16
Unbelievers should be able to see this mark of holiness in us. How? By what we wear.
“Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.” Colossians 3:12
“You should clothe yourselves instead with the beauty that comes from within, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is so precious to God.” 1 Peter 3:4
This encounter with the curious but unbelieving French volunteer will remain with me as a daily reminder to clothe myself with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience, and to strive to look more and more like Jesus.
Is what you wear everyday in the spirit evident enough as the shoes on your feet? Because people will notice, or they won’t. But in it you have the power to point people to Jesus.
