Washing the Dirt and Grime
Several months ago I found myself in need of a new vacuum. My husband and I went to the nearby department store, selected the one that seemed to meet our needs, and made the purchase. This particular model offered washable filters. Because my older model seemed to be in constant need of a new filter, I looked forward to taking out the old filter, washing it, allowing it to dry, and popping it back in for future use. Along with the reusable filters, my new vacuum used a collection cylinder instead of bags. It would save on the cost of purchasing vacuum bags and the cylinder would give me an idea of how well the vacuum was working. I never realized how exciting buying a new vacuum could be!
The first time I emptied the collection cylinder, I was appalled at what I saw. It was full of pet hair, dirt, and grime. This was not something that could be seen on our floors, yet there it was, staring me in the face. A few weeks later I checked the filters, curious to see how well they were doing their job.
I could stop here and save myself the humiliation of airing my dirty laundry, or better yet, my dirty flooring. However, I think by sharing my experiences, it may help you along your way to a closer relationship with God.
The filters had been doing their job quite well. They were caked in fact, caked with pet hair, dirt, and grime, similar to what I had been seeing in the collection cylinder after each use of the vacuum. I stood at the sink, allowing the water to run over the top of the filters. I watched as the brown muddy water ran down the drain and out of sight. I then held each filter closer to the faucet, letting the water wash between the folds of the fabric. When I had finished, I turned the filter over and began to examine the other side, allowing the water to wash it clean as well.
As we ask God to help us become better Christians, we are asking Him to examine us and to wash us, even the hidden areas between the folds. At baptism all of that dirt and grime washes down the drain.
It would be nice if I never had to vacuum my floors again. It would also be nice if I never had to ask God for forgiveness of yet another sin. Much like the vacuum, even though I am baptized, I still suck up dirt and grime and I need to be forgiven on a regular basis. None of us are perfect, but thankfully, we have a great God who is willing and ready to forgive and wash us clean.
I don’t think I will ever see my vacuum or my floors the same way again. I am not sure that I would want to. It reminds me to keep myself clean as much as possible and to rely on God to examine me and to clean me, in His own way, when needed.
Have you considered baptism? Are you ready to allow God to help you see your sins and to wash you clean? Below is a list of free booklets you might have an interest in reading.
