Daily Devotional – Monday, July 25, 2022
‘Friend, how did you come in here without a wedding garment?’
Matthew 22:12 (NKJV)
According to Britannica Dictionary, ‘dress code’ means, “a set of rules about what clothing may and may not be worn at a school, office, restaurant, etc.”
Dress codes also apply in some social events such as parties. Invited guests who ignore the stipulated code are considered disrespectful to the host and other guests.
Disregarding the Dress Code
Jesus told the story of a man who disregarded the dress code of a marriage feast and suffered the consequences. The host (king) had provided a wedding garment to each invited guests.
However, this man somehow entered without wearing the wedding garment. Perhaps he felt his personal attired was of a better quality than what the king had offered.
As the king went round greeting his guest, he was surprised to see the odd guest. He asked, “Friend, how did you come in here without a wedding garment?” (Matthew 22:12). The speechless man was immediately ejected from the party.
The Dreadful Consequences of Ignoring the Dress Code
In the Bible, a garment (especially a white one) symbolizes righteousness. “And to her it was granted to be arrayed in fine linen, clean and bright, for the fine linen is the righteous acts of the saints.” (Revelation 19:8).
The obstinate guest represents professed Christians who want to serve Jesus on their own terms. Instead of obeying Christ fully, they choose what to obey and what to leave out. They want the Bible to conform to their wishes and plans.
Which non-Christian attitudes and practices do we hold on and justify while professing to follow Jesus? Today, let us put away our “filthy rags” (Isaiah 64:6), and put on the righteousness of Christ (Revelation 3:18).
Prayer
Lord Jesus, clothe me with your righteousness as you prepare me for Your second coming.
