Clara’s Dress

Clothed in God’s Righteousness

She had dreamed about this opportunity. Her first performance, two years ago, completely captivated our hearts and affections—the magical flow of glittering costumes, rich symphonic bliss, and graceful, enchanting dancers. Add the wonder of the Christmas season, and the theater’s magic is indescribable. Waiting for Haley’s debut as Clara in The Nutcracker this month is almost too much for this proud dance mom.

With permission to borrow Clara’s dress for photographs, I followed Mrs. B. into the costume room, more like the inner sanctum. Immediate amazement! Toy soldiers’ hats lined the walls, followed by endless racks of beautiful gowns for the gingers, snowflakes and flowers. The dancing cooks’ cakes from the Kingdom of Sweets were enormous—and made of fabric? I was startled by the enormity of the Rat King and Nutcracker heads. Yikes!

With only a few hours remaining, I helped my sweetie pie slip carefully into Clara’s delicate ensemble. The setting sun had cast a perfect, dreamy glow. White-laced pantaloons, a multi-layer tulle petticoat, and then the dress. Each layered ruffle of cream taffeta was trimmed in bright, pink satin. A voluptuous, double, satin bow fastened tightly at her waist and draped down the back of Clara’s dress. A small layer of lace framed the neckline. To complete the transformation, her long, blonde ringlets were swept in place with a large satin bow, revealing a velvet ribbon choker and gold, heart pendant. Perfection! If only my camera had been ready to capture that crowning moment as Haley saw Clara’s reflection!

Sharing my daughter’s magical transformation reminds me of my own. Somewhere, deep within, breathes the existence of a first encounter so many years ago; one that surpasses words. It was my earliest awareness of Jesus, His presence, and the assurance that He knew me. My sweet mother and I, sitting on a picnic table under a large tree in Zilker Park, singing that timeless hymn, “In the Garden.”

Now, moments like these, when my children share their gifts and talents, totally ignite my mom-pride! Completely invigorating. Satisfying.

If my own fickle heart of flesh moves when my daughter dances, then surely, God delights when I flourish in my talents. Psalm 37:4 reminds us to “delight ourselves in the Lord.” When I do “that thing” God has gifted in me, my heart leans closer to Him. Dancing in Clara’s dress is a reminder of all I can put on as His beloved: the richness of God’s acceptance; the fullness of his love and sacrifice; his beauty for my ashes; my rags for His righteousness.

The book of Zephaniah declares, “The Lord exults over us with singing.” I’m drawn all the more to Him. It’s there, in the words of that old hymn, I am wrapped in peace. “And, he walks with me…and he tells me I am his own.” Let that sink in.

The One who knows me completely has clothed me in something far beyond fine linens. Wearing His righteousness, I become that “gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God’s sight,” and I lack nothing. (I Peter 3:4) I can trade “beauty for ashes, oil of joy for mourning, and the garment of praise for a spirit of heaviness.” (Isaiah 61:3) These fit perfectly.

Like Clara’s dress, all of the sparkles and glitter of Christmas evoke great emotions and excitement. My hope for this season is that we search for moments to celebrate and WEAR the righteousness of Jesus. May our delight and love for Him draw our families and friends closer to that transforming love and life of Jesus.

Reflection

1. Describe a time when you were keenly aware of God’s presence.

2. Identify areas where you may revert to your “old wardrobe.”

3. What are your gifts or hobbies that you consider pleasing to God?

Goals

Locate and record 3 scriptures to remind that you are in right-standing because of Jesus.

“Delight thyself also in the LORD, and he shall give thee the desires of your heart...and he shall bring forth thy righteousness as the light.”

(Psalm 37:4, 6 KJV)

“For the LORD your God is living among you. He is a mighty savior. He will take delight in you with gladness. With his love, he will calm all your fears. He will rejoice over you with joyful songs.”

(Zephaniah 3:17 NLT)