The weather has certainly taken at downward turn recently and I suppose it is to be expected and as a result we’re being forced to do something about it.  We have to do something to combat the elements of nature—we find ourselves putting things on.  Maybe added clothing, maybe even a sweater, a coat perhaps and even some may require a parka.

As we consider the idea of putting something on let us reflect on the application of baptism and the description used by the apostle Paul, who says in Galatians 3:27, “For all of you were baptized in the Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ.”

Just as in meeting a need against the cold we clothe ourselves with protective clothing, we also in clothing ourselves with Christ, meet a need that we have against the sin in our lives. 

But there is another consideration that we may be overlooking. In our clothing ourselves in Christ, He also finds Himself clothed in something and that something is our sin.  Again, the apostle Paul tells us that Jesus puts on our sin.  In 2 Corinthians 5:21 we read, “He made Him who knew no sin {to be} sin on our behalf, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.” Jesus, in taking upon Him, our sin, we find ourselves right with God.

So, today, while putting on your coat or sweater don’t forget to think about the wonderful promises we have received of God and how we look forward to receiving our great reward of a life eternal with our heavenly father.

Copyright © 2003, Nolan P. Rutter