December 15
Clothed
in Light
“Clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ, and do not think about how to satisfy your sinful desires.”
Romans 13:14 NIrV
Isaac felt a knot of anxiety tighten in his stomach as he stood awkwardly outside the dimly lit strip club. The stag do for his friend, Mark, was in full swing, and Isaac, the lone Christian in the group, felt increasingly out of place. He'd tried to suggest alternative celebrations – a go-karting session, a charity football match, even a fancy meal – but his suggestions had been met with groans and accusations of being a spoilsport.
"Come on, Isaac," Mark had said, a playful shove on his shoulder, "Loosen up! It's just a bit of fun."
But it wasn't fun for Isaac. The loud music, the raucous laughter, and the dimly lit atmosphere filled him with a sense of unease. He tried to focus on the conversation, to engage with his friends, but his eyes kept being drawn towards the stage, where women danced provocatively in skimpy outfits. A wave of disgust washed over him, not just for the spectacle unfolding before him, but also for the way his friends were leering and objectifying these women.
He felt a sudden pang of shame, not just for himself, but for the women on stage. He imagined their stories – perhaps struggling with addiction, poverty, or desperation. The thought of their humanity, their dignity, being reduced to a spectacle for the amusement of men filled him with sorrow.
Isaac felt a familiar tug in his heart, a quiet reminder of the words he had read that morning: "Clothe yourselves with the Lord Jesus Christ, and do not think about how to satisfy your sinful desires." He closed his eyes, feeling a wave of peace wash over him. He knew he couldn't control his friends' actions, but he could control his own. He would not be drawn into their revelry. He would stand firm in his faith, even if it meant feeling isolated and uncomfortable.
A wave of nausea washed over him. He knew he couldn't stay. He quietly slipped out of the club, the cacophony of noise fading behind him. He walked down the deserted street, the cool night air a welcome relief. He felt a sense of peace, a quiet satisfaction in knowing that he had stayed true to his convictions. He knew he might face some teasing from his friends later, but he also knew that he could face them with his head held high, knowing he had chosen to honor his faith above peer pressure.
Prayer:
Lord, help us to resist the temptations that surround us and to clothe ourselves in your righteousness.
Grant us the strength to stand firm in our convictions, even when we feel pressured to conform.
Help us to see the dignity and worth of every human being, and to treat them with respect and compassion.
May we always strive to live lives that honor you, even in the face of adversity.
In Jesus' name, Amen.
