And now…suddenly….it’s springtime! The warm sunshine and fresh breeze brought back childhood memories.

This was the time of year my sweet mama, of a gentle nature, turned into a samurai warrior. My sister and I were immediately recruited to join the ranks in the battle against dust balls, greasy stains, and various unclean invaders.

This was a ceiling to floor attack.

Everything that could be picked up was taken outside and shaken. Nothing inside escaped being lifted up, inspected, turned over and moved. Cobwebs and mold were no match for brooms and bleach. Few items escaped the pulsating, soapy water of the washer and fierce heat of the dryer. Only high quality, delicate items were carefully hung outside to dry. The grand finale, after several weeks, was a stunning showcase of cleanliness and order.

I can’t help but wonder what would happen if we decided to “spring clean” our lives. Anything that didn’t agree with God’s Word and a goal of excellence ….physically- mentally – and spiritually, would be tossed out. This would be far greater and more intense than my childhood experience.

None the less, I believe God is cheering us on (like mama) to get the job done.

“But who will be able to endure it when he comes? Who will be able  to stand and face him when he appears? For he will be like a blazing fire that refines metal, or like a strong soap that bleaches clothes.  He will sit like a refiner of silver, burning away the dross.” Malachi 3:2

Scripture tells us not to be conformed to the world. The Message Bible says it this way: “So here’s what I want you to do, God helping you: Take your everyday, ordinary life – your sleeping, eating, going-to-work,  and walking-around life – and place it before God as an offering. Embracing what God does for you is the best thing you can do for him”. Romans 12:1,2

Make a decision not to complain, to keep your eyes from unclean things, purify your heart, and walk in truth.

“Summing it all up, friends, I’d say you’ll do best by filling your minds and  meditating on things true, noble, reputable, authentic, compelling, gracious – the best, not the worst; the beautiful, not the ugly; things to praise, not things to curse.” Phil 4:8 Message Bible

AMEN!