Life Style ROYAL
ATRIUM INN
Chaplain’s Corner: The Cover-Up I have been working on a project that has become
As I worked on this project, I was reminded of how we often deal with problems in our own lives. When possible, we replace unhealthy habits or attitudes with better ones, which is always a wise choice. Sometimes, however, we cannot simply replace what is damaged, as we discovered with the camper. Instead, we try to cover up our problems so we can keep functioning and appear as though everything is fine. That reminded me of the greatest cover-up we can experience in our relationship with God. Psalm 32:1–2 says: Blessed is the one whose transgressions are forgiven, whose sins are covered. Blessed is the one whose sin the LORD does not count against them and in whose spirit is no deceit. Forgiveness and the covering of our sins are gifts God freely offers through His grace. An even greater work takes place when we place our faith in Jesus Christ. As 1 John 1:7 reminds us: ...and the blood of Jesus His Son cleanses us from all sin. When we trust in Christ for forgiveness, a deep cleansing takes place. Our sins are not merely hidden—they are forgiven, washed away, and remembered no more. The stain of sin is removed completely through the saving work of Jesus Christ. Let’s praise God for a cleansing that is far more than cosmetic. Through Christ, He removes the dirt and stain of sin completely and makes us clean in His sight.
something of a cover-up of past neglect and improper care. The project is a pop-up camper my daughter and son-in-law purchased as a fixer-upper. 25
years ago, it was a nice, functional camper. Now it needs considerable care to make it usable again. The caulking had deteriorated, allowing moisture to soften the wood in several areas. Improper storage also resulted in damaged screens and stains on the interior canvas. As we evaluated the camper, we cleaned and prepared it to determine where to begin. While most of it was still functional, several areas no longer worked properly or looked appealing. We started by reinforcing the softened wood with pieces of sheet aluminum to strengthen and protect those areas. I also spent a significant amount of time removing old, deteriorated caulk and applying fresh caulking to seal the places where leaks had developed. The stains on the canvas presented another challenge. We researched different cleaning products and tried mildew removers and stain cleaners, but very little of the staining came out. The canvas had absorbed the stains too deeply. Eventually, we discovered a flexible primer designed to cover stains while remaining pliable. We applied it, and it covered the stains remarkably well. We hope it continues to adhere as promised while retaining its flexibility.
www.RoyalAtriumInn.com (616) 772-1248 | rai@provlife.com | 400 Parkside Drive | Zeeland, MI 49464
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