My Clothes!

What should we do when people demand our clothes?

Jesus says, “…if someone wants to sue you and take your tunic, let him have your cloak as well.”

When Israel's poorest citizens took out a loan, they were often obliged to give their cloak as a pledge to repay. Yet, according to Deuteronomy 24, the creditor was not allowed to keep the cloak throughout the night. Because of the cold, the creditor had to return the cloak before the sun went down. However, some creditors were harsh. When they returned the cloak before sunset, they immediately demanded another pledge in its place and said, "Give me your tunic."  Jesus was saying, "Do not protest if you are treated this way. Do not become angry. Do not strike back. Give him your tunic and your cloak as well. Fill his arms with your clothes, even though you may need them."

At that point, a bitter quarrel is avoided.

Christian, there is no place for rage in our witnessing arsenal.  People who fly into a rage seldom make a good landing. When you lose your temper, you always lose. Some of us get so angry that we desire to give people a piece of our mind. However, it usually is a piece that we cannot afford to lose.  If you keep your mouth shut, you will never put your foot in it.

What an incredible opportunity to witness! Are you seen as a troublemaker to the darkness? Do your guardian angels have their hands full?

Darkness does not like the light!