God Hates Mildew

I’ve been reading in the OT lately, you know all the begats and do’s and don’ts. This is that section of the Bible most of us call “boring”. Got to Leviticus and there again is a long list of what to do…with mildew. Doesn’t sound very spiritual. Seems way outside the ten commandments. Why would God be interested in mildew? (Further reading shows that he has a lot to say about our physical bodies, health, nutrition, cleanliness and even sanitation.)

Actually, the more I read, the more I was intrigued. I’ve read this before, yet something struck me afresh this time around. One thing I saw in this was our Father’s amazing care for all of life, down to the smallest details. He wants to be a part of everything in my life, not to keep me occupied with busywork, but involved for my own good. He continually points me to things that are good for me.

I have to admit I couldn’t help but think of another application in my own life, too. Is there “destructive” mildew creeping in that needs to be destroyed before I see serious damage? Are there things in my life that need to be “torn out”, “washed and cleaned” or “destroyed by fire”? Are there things that look innocuous in my life, but may be eating away below the surface? The priest is charged with discerning which type of mildew is present and what needs to be done in each case. Who do I have in my life that can help me discern where I need gentle change or where I need significant evaluation and maybe serious uprooting?

Most of all I have a new reminder that everything matters. All of life is connected. God is interested in my spiritual life and my relationship with him, of course. Yet he is also concerned about my soul and my body, my physical and emotional health. There is nothing in my life outside of God’s concern, even something so seemingly insignificant like mildew.