Taken to the Cleaners

As we continue to get use out of our garments, we must continue to care for them appropriately. As dancers often sweat and our bodies come in contact with our garments, delayed care for them may have some undesirable results. Washing our bodies is important, but garments can carry odors as well.

All garments may not need to go to the cleaners, but it is important that fabric care be followed for the best results. Some items may respond well to a gentle wash and hang dry. Garments that have elaborate beading, sequins, or other intricate details may become damaged during dry cleaning. These may require hand-washing. Other dance ministers may "scent" ministry garments with fragrances. Caution must be used here as well when using oils or substances that may stain the garments. We should seek the Lord in any circumstance.

Another great practice for garment care is to wash or clean them as soon as possible after using them. This aids in the prevention of any deterioration or malodorous remnants left in our clothing. If we are selecting fabrics that cannot "take the heat," then we may need to seek wise counsel concerning breathable alternatives. We must never take the seemingly small details for granted. Anything that causes a distraction will foster difficulty in getting the Message out. Let us make sure that the offering we give is a sweet-smelling savor.

Numbers 8:7 (NKJV)
Thus you shall do to them to cleanse them: Sprinkle water of purification on them, and let them shave all their body, and let them wash their clothes, and so make themselves clean.

Zechariah 3:4 (NKJV)
Then He answered and spoke to those who stood before Him, saying, “Take away the filthy garments from him.” And to him He said, “See, I have removed your iniquity from you, and I will clothe you with rich robes.”

Matthew 27:59 (NKJV)
When Joseph had taken the body, he wrapped it in a clean linen cloth

Revelation 19:8 (NKJV)
And to her it was granted to be arrayed in fine linen, clean and bright, for the fine linen is the righteous acts of the saints.

Revelation 19:14 (NKJV)
And the armies in heaven, clothed in fine linen, white and clean, followed Him on white horses.