SIMPLY DRESSED 

“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come. The old has gone, the new is here!.” 2 Cor 5:17 (NIV)

I needed to get things together for a garage sale my Bible study group is having. I thought I would go through my closet and dresser drawers and get rid of clothes I don't wear anymore. As I was pulling out my clothes I thought about all my prayers for healing and for my strength to return from my falls. My injuries caused the progression of my CMT, Charcot-Marie-Tooth.  I truly believed I was going to get stronger.  I held onto my clothes like a caterpillar wrapped in a cocoon.

I finally came to the acceptance that this is as good as its going to get. I needed to re-evaluate my wardrobe. As my CMT progressed I have lost some of my upper body strength and my hands have weakened. Buttons, zippers and tight fitting clothing had to go. Dressing is now limited to simplicity not style. My attire consists of  loose fitting clothes, elastic and Velcro. I exchanged my stylish fashion to one of comfort and ease.

A few days prior a friend gave me some of her clothes that didn't fit her anymore.  In cleaning out my dresser drawers I was able to replace my old attire with the new ones given to me.  I filled up a large suitcase and got rid of most of my old clothing.
I thought about my relationship with Christ.  As I mature in my faith I need to let go of many things.   In order for me to take on the new clothes of righteousness I must first get rid of the old attire of self control.  As a new creation I can no longer wear jealousy, anger, bitterness or self -centeredness.  I want to clothe myself with kindness, humility, patience, gentleness, peace and love. (Colosians 3-12-15)  Just thinking about these characteristics  brings my spirit comfort and ease.

As my friends dragged out the heavy luggage of clothes, it was like dragging out the garbage weighing me down.  My spirit was lifted. It felt good to get rid of all that I was holding onto for so long. I was embraced in peace.

I may not be fashion savvy and you won't see me on the cover of any beauty magazines. But, my name is written in the Lamb's book of life and it's even engraved in the Master's hand. What more could I ask for? Hallelujah,                                                                                  the old is gone and the new is here to stay!

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