December. Like many Christians, I love the joyful season of celebrating and awaiting the coming of my perfect King. The baby Jesus who didn't stay in the manger forever, because he had a mission to complete. The crucified Jesus who didn't stay in the grave forever, because he had a mission to complete. Out of gratitude, love, and joy, we sincerely try to participate in the mission of God. So what does that have to do with wearing a dress?
There are so many people in this world who live as modern slaves. Whether they are victims of forced labor, sexual exploitation, or war ravaged lands, MILLIONS of individuals are currently enslaved. One way some women, including myself, have chosen to respond is by raising awareness and funds for those in captivity. We want to be more like Christ, we want to bring others to eternally know Christ, and we want others to receive liberty from earthly chains. Freedom for now, freedom for forever.
Here I am again, inviting my friends and family to financially donate to things. It's a costly season, but this is a biblibal spiritual practice. Let's reflect on what Christ read from Isaiah at the very beginning of his ministry. "The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to set the oppressed free, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor." Luke 4:18-19.
What hope! This is what we are celebrating. Amidst all the Christmas festivities, this total liberation is why we rejoice! But can we consider for a moment what we have done to participate in the proclamation of the good news to the poor? How have we declared freedom, offered physical help and healing, worked to free the oppressed, and proclaimed the Lord's favor? We've all done some of that, but we could all do some more. After all, this is a mission so important that Christ CAME to earth to live it, DIED to accomplish it, and RESURRECTED to complete it.
For the glory of God, for the sake of the oppressed, and for the sanctification of my own self, I'm wearing dresses in December. Let's join together and give a portion of what we have to those who have not. Let's practice the Christlike art of sacrifice and transform an extra something for ourselves into a extremely necessary something for others. Let's give generously, because we have been generously given to. Let's show the world how loving God is by acting in love. Let's pray and sing, and rejoice in the coming King.
Let's put on dresses and talk about messes. The world needs help, and praise God that we aren't the Savior.
*Dressember donations go to justice working organizations. Please click the link below to donate to my campaign, or to read more on their website!
https://support.dressemberfoundation.org/team/99819