Clothed in Humility

                         By Donna Martin 

     Over the past 30 years, the traditional kitchen apron has lost its popularity. For centuries women have worn them when they kept their homes. The apron can be found as far back as the temple priests in Jerusalem and it was a symbol of humility. In 1 Peter 5:5 the KJV says that we are to be clothed in humility, but in some other versions it says that we should be clothed in the apron of humility. 

     In the early 1900's, the apron was an essential  wardrobe accessory, and they were showcases for an individual's needlework skills. Some fine examples featured embroidery, tatting, and appliqués. I can still remember my mother wearing an apron when she prepared a meal or did housework, and some of the memorable TV moms always wore one.

     If you have tried to purchase an apron lately, you would find that it is no longer an easy task. Don’t women need aprons to protect their clothing anymore? I think that many women have stopped wearing aprons for two reason: One, is that many women don’t spend as much time in the kitchen anymore; and two, many women of our time believe they carry negative connotations for the wearer of the apron...perhaps one of servitude. Both are possibly signs of the times, but aprons do reflect a simpler time.

     Aprons are still useful and they carry a spiritual lesson. In addition to protecting the investment of our clothing, the wearer is reminded of her original design as a woman...her life in service to her beloved family. Maybe it is fitting that her apron also be an apron of humility. Although the keeper of the home has been devalued over time, allow the purchase of an apron to kindle what may want to develop in your life.