Do you enjoy dressing your pet in clothes?

I won’t tell anyone if you do.

There’s something undeniably appealing about seeing animals in mini versions of human clothing, isn’t there?

(Your cat, however, might not agree.)

Even if you’re the type to roll your eyes at the idea of dressing up animals, there’s a lesson we can learn about this from the Bible.

Wait, what? The Bible mentions putting clothing on animals?

Yes, it does!

Let’s take a look at one of the more unusual stories in the Old Testament, found in the Book of Jonah.

You might remember the story of Jonah from Sunday school as a child. This prophet of God was told to preach repentance to the Ninevites. After a detour involving a whale, Jonah finally arrives at Nineveh to give them God’s message: if Nineveh doesn’t repent within 40 days, the city will be destroyed.

To Jonah’s astonishment, the Ninevites believe God and immediately proclaim a fast. Even the king humbles himself and repents, issuing this proclamation to his people:

“No one, not even the animals from your herds and flocks, may eat or drink anything at all. People and animals alike must wear garments of mourning, and everyone must pray earnestly to God.” (Jonah 3:7-8)

Did you notice what the king demanded? Not only the people but the animals as well must dress in mourning clothes.

What lessons can we learn from this particular aspect of the king’s edict?

(Hint: it’s actually not that we and our pets should wear matching outfits!)

Firstly, all the Ninevites’ pride went out the window as they humbled themselves before God.

The king was so intent on beseeching God that he didn’t care how ridiculous they and their animals looked to the neighbouring nations.

And you can bet that word will have got around about this. “Did you hear what the Ninevites did? They put pyjamas on their camels!”

But the Ninevites didn’t care what others thought. Their prime concern was obeying God.

Secondly, God responded to their sincerity with mercy (and perhaps a smile, too).

“When God saw what they had done and how they had put a stop to their evil ways, he changed his mind and did not carry out the destruction he had threatened.” (Jonah 3:10)

Maybe we should take a page from the Ninevites’ book:

Let’s follow Jesus wholeheartedly without being afraid of how silly we might appear to outsiders.

Sometimes we are hesitant to witness to others or profess our faith because we’re afraid of what others may think of us.

“Our dedication to Christ makes us look like fools…” (1 Corinthians 4:10)

Let’s also live in humility before God, keeping short accounts with Him.

“I will bless those who have humble and contrite hearts, who tremble at my word.” (Isaiah 66:2)

Whether or not you ever dress your pet in a mini tuxedo, be sure to clothe yourself with Christ!

© 2023 Lori J. Cartmell. All rights reserved.