Pastor Lori’s Last Blog

“Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rest consume and where thieves break in and steal, but store up for yourselves treasures in heaven.” -Verse of the day, YouVersion Bible study, June 14, 2023

The business of packing to move is one long process of discernment: what do I keep and what do I throw away? I have teased my husband about being a pack-rat, but I am learning how attached to possessions I am.

In the basement we discovered boxes that had never been opened since our last move seven years ago and some smaller pieces of furniture we had never used.

Rational people might think: Hmmm, never used in 7 years. Probably a good time to say, “Not needed” and dispose of. Unfortunately, when it’s my possessions, it’s a lot harder to be rational.

“But these are family photos…”
“But this is a table… or desk… or night stand I grew up with…
“But this is the tinware my mother collected…”
“But this is something the kids gave us…”

Yup. Something tells me none of this will be thrown away.

The Bible warns us over and over again to travel lightly – to let go of that extra, unneeded pair of sandals or tunic; to “not store up treasures on earth where moth and rust consume”… and dust really piles up… the idea is that nothing material lasts. As much sentimental or practical value as we might attach to a possession – it can also become a distraction from the things that do last: our souls, our need to serve, our love for those around us.

I cannot promise how much more I will give away or toss away from the overabundance of possessions we have amassed, but today’s verse will be an encouragement: to really weigh the value of what I am holding and to travel as lightly as possible through this life.

Grace and peace,
Lori