In preparing for a remodel, I had to empty a closet slated for demolition. I found a box containing some of Momma’s items. I remember packing that box after her death. It had remained unopened on the bottom shelf of that closet for 13 years. But since I was now losing that closet space, I had a hard decision to make. What to do with her things? To throw them out seemed disrespectful, but I had no space or inclination to keep or display those items.
I reached out to a group of friends who advised me. Then one evening, I read Ecclesiastes 3:1-14. Most of us are familiar with this teacher’s litany of seasonal activities, including the funereal recitation, “a time to be born and a time to die.” But I found a gem in verse 6 that validated what my friends suggested: “a time to keep and a time to throw away.” As hard as it was for me to accept, Momma’s treasures were not my treasures.
Let’s look past Momma’s box and consider “a time to keep and a time to throw away” comprehensively. What are you keeping that you need to let go?
I was angry with my daughter on Easter, so much so that when I saw her, I did not give her the hug or kiss we normally greet each other with. We are a demonstrative family; hugs and kisses are a way we show that love to each other. Throughout the day, I offered up small prayers, asking God to help me overcome my anger. As my anger subsided, we talked, laughed, and supped yet residual anger kept my hugs to myself. Then the Holy Spirit exclaimed, “Girl, give that child a hug!” That bear hug I gave her released all my negative emotions. It was time to restore the bond and throw away the anger.
Are you keeping grudges? Replaying hurts? Dwelling on perceived wrongs done to you? Are you keeping those resentments boxed up in your soul? Have you considered how holding onto these toxins affects your body? Your mental well-being? Your soul? Are you ready to heal? Consider how letting go can restore you. Now is the time to talk with Jesus about what to keep and what to throw away. Now is the time to ask Jesus to help you throw away that which is not serving Him. Although it might take longer than an Easter dinner, He will help you purge.
Reflection: With the mindset of healing, ask yourself the questions posed in the previous paragraph. Then ask Jesus for deliverance. Amen!
Purge is really a hard thing for me, but I do realize it is a great way to show that I am learning more and more to trust in the Lord and His Word. Thank You BRI for helping me grow.
Purge is really a hard thing for me, but I do realize it is a great way to show that I trust in the Lord and His Word for this part of time for my life. Traveling this journey of life of today is hard. But I thank God that God sends a tool of His every time when I am stuck in my own way and of my own feelings. Thank You BRI for helping me grow.
My Friend, you know a good part of my recent story. I’m trying. You have a good understanding of how this one impacted me. Still trying.