Filthy Clothes
“Then he showed me Joshua the high priest standing before the angel of the LORD, and Satan standing at his right side to accuse him. . . . Now Joshua was dressed in filthy clothes as he stood before the angel,” (Zechariah 3:1, 3, NIV)
This powerful image is from our sermon text yesterday. The filthy clothing symbolizes Joshua’s sin, and Satan, the accuser, is reminding everyone of Joshua’s failure. Verse 4 tells the truth that God takes away our sin: “The angel said to those who were standing before him, ‘Take off his filthy clothes.’
Then he said to Joshua, ‘See, I have taken away your sin, and I will put fine garments on you,’” (Zechariah 3:4, NIV). It is so important for us to realize that not one of us is able to stand righteous before God by our own merit. We simply don’t deserve it. Thank God that his great love for us is shown in his mercy and grace toward us! It is through Jesus and only through Jesus that our sins are taken away. It reminds of another image from Revelation of a great multitude all dressed in white robes. They are described as those “who have come out of the great tribulation; they have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb,” (Revelation 7:14, NIV).
Remember that Sunday we will be having a wiener roast at 4pm on the NDMC grounds. This is a great time to come out for fellowship. Also a great time to invite a friend to come along.
Also, remember that Antique Plow Day is coming up October 31st. If you’ve never attended, it’s a great event. It’s also a fundraiser for a great case—Growing Hope Globally. You can find more information about it in the announcement section of the E-Gram.
It’s an especially busy time for Josanne and I. I don’t always ask for prayers, though I know some of you are faithful in praying for us all of the time. If you think of it, will you offer prayers on our behalf over the next few weeks? We appreciate it and love you all.
God bless, Brian
Scripture readings for next Sunday
Zechariah 4—There are lots of amazing images in this chapter. Which stands out to you?
Revelation 1:12-20—How is the image here similar to and different from Zechariah 4?
Psalm 33—What is this psalm teaching?
1 Corinthians 2—What is the role of the Spirit that Paul discusses
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