The air is warmer and the snow has morphed into rain that teases a bright green out of long barren trees and withered grass. The birds sing joyfully, piercing the air earlier each day with a symphony of celebration to the God of all creation. A hint of color emerges from slowly unfolding blooms adorning the gray landscape with the hope of brighter days. I watch this miraculous transformation of spring happen through the weather streaked glass of my windows, the new angle of the sun now clearly illuminating the dirt stuck between my carpet and walls. Behind me on the floor, near the closet (not in it), lie discarded gloves and snow boots no longer needed and all our closets still hold the bulk of winter. I long to begin enjoying the warmth of the new season, but find myself held captive by the mess of winter.
I have come to believe that spring-cleaning is a desire God places within each one of us. As we enter new seasons in our life, the dirt rattles to the top where it's visible and streaks are discovered on the windows of our soul begging us to search for a clearer view of God. When I spring-clean my house, I feel the urge to open the windows and let the sun shine in. When I allow God to vacuum my soul, I find it easier to let go of worries and temptations. For those who seldom attempt to clean a closet and don't know what God's soul cleaner is, this process can be daunting - both physically and spiritually.
This month, challenge your group to put on their old clothes, break out the cleaning supplies, and meet the nitty-gritty needs of a person(s) unable to deep clean their home. Together, select a working single mom, an elderly widow, an injured or sick friend or family member, or a low-income family whose home you can tackle with Pine-Sol and prayer. Once you've selected someone, follow these steps to successful spring-cleaning:
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Begin with prayer - This is a very humbling act for those receiving the help. Pray ahead of time for them to be receptive to the idea before you ask.
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Set a day and time - Be on time and leave at a set time. Respecting their time and property shows you value them.
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Bring all your own cleaning supplies - Bring a basic kitchen and bathroom cleaner, toilet cleaner, furniture polish and dust rags, vacuum cleaner, large garbage bags, glass cleaner, lots of paper towels, broom and mop. Don't expect to use their supplies.
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Offer a prayer - Before you leave, ask if you can pray with them. Pray for their specific needs and praise God for his spring-cleaning transformation in your own life.
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Invite them to your small group - Extend the invitation to your small group and an offer to be available if they need further help.
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Continue the relationship - Pray for this person(s) each week in your group. If they don't come to your group right away, keep in contact by taking turns writing notes or calling.
Touching someone's home with purpose and prayer will also touch a soul in need of God's loving care.
