So, as we began to pack, we have been shocked to realize how much "stuff" we still had, and how long it took us to get it all organized and packed. We really under estimated the amount of time and energy this would take, and have not felt much of the peace that we felt during the past year as we work on this. It has been a great reminder of how much the stuff in our lives can take away from us. It takes me back again to one of my favorite quotes where Jesus tells a rich young man to give up everything that he has to follow Jesus.
While I have never felt compelled to take that literally, I have had felt an overwhelming feeling as I read that, telling me to get rid of all that gets between me and the life the God intended for me. The rich young man was so focused on his money, and his stuff, that he was not enjoying the things that God intended for him to enjoy. Charli and I have spent the last year concentrating on getting rid of the things that get between us spending time together, serving, laughing, resting, and praying. This time of packing has not been a good example of our efforts. But it is what motivates us to keep going.
So as we transition to a life living out of bags for the next six months, it will be good to see what we really need, and how much more of this "stuff" we can leave behind when we move again.
For now, I guess I should start stretching. I am getting to old to carry all of this stuff around.
