“You are already clean because of the word I have spoken to you.” – Jesus (John 15:3)
“You’re clean and I’m cleaning you.”
Or, it seems that Jesus is saying,
“You’re clean because of ME, and you’ll still be cleaned (pruned) at times to help you keep growing and being more effective in the service of others.”
But, you’re clean. Like…Jesus makes you clean. Jesus takes away the sins of the world. Jesus gives us all a fresh start. We can begin again. He’s got the ultimate Magic Eraser and guilt, shame, and condemnation are no longer a thing.
This was a revolutionary thought because Jesus’ Jewish audience was constantly trying to “get clean.” Rituals, sacrifices, restrictions… Over 600 rules they grew up being taught to keep. Yikes! All in an effort to be clean.
But, like most teenagers, what happens when you realize you don’t measure up to expectations and can’t seem to please the authorities… while wondering if you’re missing out on life and not free to be yourself? You rebel. We rebel.
Until we understand that we’re accepted. We’re clean. The mess of rebellion AND the burden of religion… we are free from both.
Be you.
Be clean.
The Gardener’s pruning—it’s not about shaming or fixing you. You’re clean… AND… He’ll continue to clean you to make you a shinier reflection of Himself. It’s the good life.