Daily Devotional for May 26, 2021

Yesterday afternoon, Laura came rushing through the door saying that Melissa had just called asking if she could fill in as the staff babysitter for the afternoon.

Realizing our staff always needs as much adult supervision as possible, I told Laura I was glad she was there.

Then she said, “I sorry I look like this.  I was at the grocery store when Melissa called so I rushed over.”

I accepted her apology and agreed she looked pretty rough.  I suggested she probably needed to go home and change into something more appropriate because she was embarrassing me.  As usual, Laura ignored my pastoral advice.  This got me thinking.

What is appropriate church attire?  What are the rules?  Do you always have to be dressed in your Sunday best?

Now, just for the record, on Sundays, I always wear a coat and tie because if I didn’t, I’m pretty sure I’d burst into flame.  But is that the right way to think?

Since it was a God question, I knew the first place to look would be the scriptures.  That’s where I found the answer.

The bible tells us God is much more concerned about the state of our hearts than the clothing we wear.  It’s what is on the inside that counts. 

This is why the prophet Samuel said, “The Lord does not look at the things people look at.  People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.”  (1 Samuel 16:7b)

So, knowing God’s primary concern is not our clothing but our hearts, I’ve come up with “Robbins’ Rules for Appropriate Church Attire.”

First, cover up your underwear.  No one wants to see that.  Second, no Ozzy Osbourne t-shirts.  That pretty much sums it up.

Prayer:  Dear Gracious Heavenly God, open my eyes, mind, and spirit to what really matters.  I pray my life brings you joy.  In Jesus’ name I pray.  Amen.

God’s not really concerned what you wear to church.  Neither am I.  God’s concerned that you come to church.  So am I.

Also, just for the record, Laura didn’t look that bad.  Her t-shirt said, “Let Go, Let God.”  That’s much better than an Ozzy Osbourne t-shirt.  It says everything that needs to be said.

I pray your day is filled with joy and laughter.
Tom Robbins