I have to admit it. I am ashamed.
No matter how hard I try, no matter how firm my intentions, no matter how much I think I’ll be successful this time, I overpack!
When I was younger and made trips here and there, I don’t think I had so much stuff I thought critically important to take with me. It seems like I remember being able to stuff a few things in a bag and take off!
As I have gotten older, I have more trouble keeping it light when packing.
And my bags have gotten heavier!
I start off just fine; count the days and figure out what clothes to take. If it’s to a summer place of warm weather, beaches, swimming, and casual living; it is easier to get things together.
If we are going to a cold climate, the heavier thicker clothes take up more suitcase space, and the bags quickly fill up.
If we are going to a mixed climate place, oh my! Packing for hot and cold means lots of layers, and that complicates packing. Of course, the longer the trip, the more it takes.
My Mama once said, “When my medicine costs more than my makeup, I’m done!” I’m about there.
Now I have to pack my vitamins, my medicines, my just in case medicines, my in case we get hurt or sick medicines, and my preventive medicines. The more mature my skin, the more it takes to take care of it and the more makeup it takes to look natural and like I’m not wearing makeup!
Shoes—-another topic. Walking shoes and cute shoes along with flip flops just in case. Do we need boots? How many pairs of socks?
I think about what Jesus took with Him. My goodness, there is no record of Him towing suitcases and clothes bags, coolers, floats, snacks, and a small pharmacy on His walking trips. Did He even carry a walking stick?
When Jesus sent out his 12 disciples to preach the Gospel, He told them: “Take nothing for the journey—no staff, no bag, no bread, no money, no extra shirt. Whatsoever house you enter, stay there until you leave that town. If the people do not welcome you, leave their town and shake the dust off your feet as a testimony against them.” So they set out and went from village to village, proclaiming the good news and healing people everywhere.” Luke 9:3-6
Why did Jesus send the 12 out with these instructions? Maybe he wanted them to be most concerned about leaving and getting busy preaching the Gospel of salvation and healing, not thinking about themselves and creature comforts. We know that God will provide for us just as he provides for the birds of the air, and we have to build faith in His provision. The focus was on proclaiming the news of who Jesus was and what He taught!
The disciples were learning to put the kingdom first.
I’m praying God will teach me to put His work first, not get caught up in material things, and keep the most important things the most important things! Help me travel light, Lord!
