Monday, May 23, 2011

thoughts on the news of the day: baggage

hmmm…..
            A member of our church who travels quite a bit talks about her dream vacation.  It would be a trip beginning in a vehicle and she would pack nothing ahead of time—you know just jump in the car and go.  Everything for the journey including clothes, toiletries and other needs would be bought as needed at the local Wal-mart or wherever a store could be found.  No worries, no cares, no encumbrances, just a trip to a destination that hasn’t been determined.
            I was thinking that’s how it is when we die.  We take nothing with us – not even a toothbrush.  We are on a journey to a place we haven’t been before but it is a destination nonetheless.  It’s been on my mind today because another member of our congregation passed away last night after a brief illness.  He was a backpacker and loved to go on trips where he could explore nature.  There are lovely photos of his trips arranged on the walls of his home.  I am almost certain that he always packed light.  He would love the metaphor of a journey without even a toothbrush as our way to heaven.
            What would you pack for a trip to heaven?  Would you take along the memories of loved ones and their affection for you?  Would you bring courage and stamina for what might be a long journey?  Would faith and hope be packed into your spiritual tote bag?             
            What would you take along with you?
            hmmm.....
           
           

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