Moving

Life can be said to be an existence constantly moving through different stages, in each of which we add to our learning. In our recent move we certainly have added to our learning but maybe not to our wisdom.

As I reflect on the lessons learned, I see a parallel with the Christian life. One of the key lessons has been to declutter more strictly. This has meant not to hold on to things which crowd out the available space. The writer to the Hebrews urges us to ‘leave behind all that would hinder’. This means to actively remove the clutter spoiling our closer relationship with God such as sin, bad habits, distractions and cultural baggage. This helps to persevere in our goals of spiritual, relational and personal growth

The first few days, and perhaps weeks after a move, there is the desire to get things sorted out as quickly as possible. Inevitably things don’t always go as smoothly as we want. Utilities let us down. Some things don’t work. Some things are somehow lost. All these can try our patience or cripple us with anxiety. In life things or people can frustrate and cause upset. Paul writing to the Colossians tells them to ‘put on compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness and patience, bearing with one another. The psalmist in 37 7-8 says ‘Be still before the Lord and wait patiently for Him.

In moving, we dealt with many individuals who were giving us a service. It was important to appreciate their efforts. In life, too, it is important to respect everyone. Paul in Ephesians tells them that Christ is all and in all. As we deal with everyone, we will find that some are easier than others. It is important that we try to remember that truth. Don’t see the difficult person; see Christ in them.

When thinking about moving along in life, remember what Paul told the men of Athens, ‘In Him we live and move and have our being’. This will help us to declutter, be patient and see others as made in God’s image.

Ian Jepps