“Therefore, get rid of all moral filth and the evil that is so prevalent and humbly accept the word planted in you, which can save you.” (James 1:21)

A few weeks ago I power washed our house and fence and it was an oddly satisfying job. First, when it’s a hot day, you actually stay cool as the backsplash of water mists over you. But the best part is to see the dirt and grime get cleaned off in these mesmerizing distinct lines. The day after I finished, I remembered pulling into the driveway and checking out the house. After a quick pat on the back, and still feeling very satisfied with how the job turned out, I walked into the house and took a moment to look out the back window to see the fence. Then I saw something that made my shoulders droop, the wind was officially taken out of my sail. A bird, one that apparently should seek some form of medical help, had its way with a section of the fence. Literally purple markings all over. As I reflected on this sight (of course still wondering what a bird could have possibly eaten to have that come out of it) I thought if this is how God feels with us. We sin, and repent. God wipes our slate clean, only to look back and see us miss the mark in a new and different way. Today’s verse from James is an all-out call for Christians to purge themselves of this cycle. To “rid [ourselves] of all moral filth and evil.” James even goes as far as to call this filth prevalent, meaning predominate or the normal sins of the land. This evil would be the sins that are acceptable in today’s society. James’ plea is for us to cut this evil out of our lives and find the guiding Word within us. Today, rid yourself of all moral filth and evil – and focus on Christ Jesus who saves.