One of the main themes of this blog for the last four years is “Simplify”. In Hebrews 12:1 we read:
Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset [us], and let us run with patience the race that is set before us,
Weight means: a burden, weight, encumbrance, hindrance: any obstruction that impedes or is burdensome. How many have purchased a closet full of items that have only served to take up room and gather dust? “Oh, I will use it someday.” We await the day that never arrives. Why? Our values and priorities are ever-changing. When I was young, a ski boat was the thing to own. Our plans to go to the lake every weekend was only challenged by our budget. Sure, I could park one car in the driveway to allow for that rig. That first summer we took it out and played hard. The next spring I had to have the motor serviced. What? $200 for a tune-up? My excitement waned after the cost of owning the boat soared. Once our second child was on the way, that boat became a liability. It was gone! Often, it is easier to get rid of the big things but leave the little things to be shuffled around year after year. We become a slave to the clutter. We are so busy maintaining our little things in life thus we become ineffective to change people’s lives.
Sure, we can’t throw away everything but why not get rid of those things that you haven’t used, worn, or even touched in the last five years. Where do I start? Do it the same way you eat an elephant: one bite at a time. Get rid of 10 things a day. Donate those books you read to the library or senior citizens home. Give those “lightly” worn clothes to the Salvation Army or other charitable organization that accepts clothing. Take the IRS approved tax deduction and you may come about better than a garage sale, but without the time investment.
Jesus traveled light. There is no evidence that he required a caravan during His ministry. I’m not suggesting that you get rid of all your possessions unless Our Heavenly Father were to specifically speak to you. However in these times, less is more. Less overhead, less utilities, less maintenance, the list goes on. Let us unburden ourselves with any burden that might slow us down.
With less to manage, your focus and move towards what is on Our Heavenly Father’s mind. Without those encumbrances, we are able to focus our attention on those weighty matter before us. At the end of the race, the stuff in the closet won’t matter.