If there is something that I like, it’s a nice apron. I learned to cook at a young age, and I love to do it. And I learned to cook for a lot of people since we were a big family. The first time I put on an apron, it was just something cool to wear. But the purpose and meaning of it has changed as I’ve grown older.
Hosting people in my house and cooking for them excites me and brings the best out of me. I go all out! From the food, dessert, to the setting of the table. Trust me it’s a whole day thing.
The definition of an apron, is as follows: An apron is a functional accessory that layers over one’s outfit to protect one’s clothes and skin from incidental stains and marks. Apron styles adapt to the tastes of the times to suit the values and jobs of the current culture. The practical, fashionable, sentimental, nature of the apron has made it a cherished accessory for centuries. Because aprons provide comfort, protection and a sense of preparedness, the apron will always be a go-to garment for people who serve, work, clean, entertain and create. What a beautiful definition with lots of spiritual meaning for those that understand that their main purpose on earth is to serve.
When a woman discovers the beauty of servanthood, her approach and perspective towards others change dramatically. The meaning of her whole world takes her to a different level, touched by real love.
The Kingdom is all about servanthood, and our greatest example is in Jesus, Mark 10:45 ”For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve others and to give his life as a ransom for many.” Jesus’ heart and commitment to serve, brought us salvation and eternal life. It makes me wonder if he wore an apron?
As women in the Kingdom of God, we know very well that we have been called to serve .Galatians 5:13 says ”For you have been called to live in freedom, my brothers and sisters. But don’t use your freedom to satisfy your sinful nature. Instead, use your freedom to serve one another in love.” The secret to serve effectively is to do it with love. It has been said many times, to love and serve is simply a choice, no one can obligate you.
Now, let’s take a quick look at the other side of servanthood, one that is not very pretty. To serve one another can be troubling at times, as the demand is big and it requires us to be intentional. Why? Because to serve those we love is easy, but there is a hidden beauty and treasure that is only discovered when we decide to love and serve those who have hurt us, mistreated us, defamed us, etc.
My friend, the apron challenges you to serve beyond your comfort zone and to serve beyond your feelings. It challenges you to keep the right attitude and check yourself. We must serve with the attitude of Christ, ”You must have the same attitude that Christ Jesus had. Though he was God, he did not think equality with God as something to cling to. Instead, he gave up his divine privileges; he took the humble position of a slave…” (Phil. 2:5-7 NLT).
To serve has the potential to change a heart without words!
We saw the meaning of the apron, let’s apply it to ourselves and use it as the armor of a servant. It will serve as a layer to protect your clothes and keep it white for his coming, ”He did this to present her to himself as a glorious church without a spot or wrinkle or any other blemish. Instead, she will be holy and without fault” (Eph. 5:27).
It will help to guard your heart. Wearing that apron will help you to adapt your service according to the season and place you are in. I believe it will also be a most needed reminder at times of glory in order to stay humble and not to look for someone to serve us, but rather to always be aware of those we can serve. As women, we want all the bases to be covered, and guess what? The apron does just that, for those who serve. It will keep them clean, protected, and ready.
Aprons also provide comfort and a sense of preparedness, so the apron will always be a go-to garment for kingdom women, and it will keep us up to date with kingdom fashion. No one will have to wait for you to be ready if you keep it on. Sometimes at the end of our day, we might be tired and be tempted to take it off. The same can happen in servanthood. But please, don’t take it off; I urge you, keep it on. This is not about who notices you; this is not about the applauses you might receive; this is not about titles, my servant friend, this about others. It has everything to do with carrying out the Great Commission. ”Do nothing out of selfish ambition... Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others” (Phil. 2:3-4).
I have never looked at an apron the same way as did that day I put it on as a child. I continue to buy and collect them because they remind me that I was called to serve inside and outside my home.
Chaney Garcia is an ordained minister of the Church of God and serves in the Kingdom as an evangelist, preacher, and teacher. She is also the co-pastor of Total Restoration Church in Los Angeles with her husband, Lemuel. Lemuel has her heart, and her 3 boys have brought an immense joy to who she is. She enjoys cooking, having friends over, and loves coffee.
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