Cleaning Closets

Cleaning and organizing a closet is a deeply satisfying experience. Taking everything out and choosing what to keep, what to toss, and what to give away. Replacing the kept things in reasonable order. Finishing with some aromatic sachets strategically placed and tied with satin ribbon. A worthy Saturday morning endeavor.

Usually, there will be a handful of things that remind me to pray for someone. The pretty coral shawl my sister gave me, the basket from mother’s kitchen that has been repurposed to hold my socks, the dainty sandals my daughter-in-law gifted me, and the red rock bracelet placed in my hand by a friend in the church lobby several years ago.

Suddenly, I am overwhelmed by God’s goodness to me. Not the things themselves, but the people they represent. People who love me and for whom I am deeply grateful. I pause to give thanks, and as I bring each one before the Lord, I sense a little bit of what He loves about them, too. His love goes deeper still.

So, having spent my closet-cleaning time in prayer and worship, I find that in God there is a multitude of purpose in so much of our daily activity. Yes, I needed to get the job done. Doing it in His presence, though, accomplished so much more.

Lord Jesus, help me remember to remember You in more and more of my living. You are full of grace and truth, and I want Your grace to permeate my life and my relationships. When I am world-weary, help me pray for those around me who are also beset by worldly cares. In this labor I will rejoice in God my savior and give You glory for the things You have done. Worship has opened my heart. Let the King of Glory come in. Amen.

Dear one, where in your life do you need to see the King of Glory? Take some time to meditate on Psalm 24 and remember that all the earth and everything in it belongs to the Lord. Whatever you are dealing with, whether situational or relational, lift up your head and acknowledge He is the King.

Until next week, beloved, open up the door and let the King of Glory come in.