Devotional Thought, May 6, 2023

How is your journey going these days? It is remarkable what you can fit into 24 hours, isn’t it? Now tell me, truly, do you walk around each day looking at life from a spiritual perspective? Most days, for me, I do. I love the challenge of seeing what spiritual lesson God has placed in my path. In fact, if it doesn’t happen, I’m a little bummed out by it. At the end of the day, I recall the happenings of the day to see what lesson I missed, or learned.

This past week or so I have been cleaning out a storage building at work. Over the years it had become a dumping ground for all things no longer needed – things that someone thought might be useful later. You know the things I mean – a chair with a broken arm, pots and pans that you have replaced, old life jackets, bed frames, used furniture, old lamps, and the list grows as each discovery is made.

Among the ‘treasures’, there were hundreds of books – some left behind by visitors, some by the owners, and others that were added rather than being tossed. Herein lies the issue – the storage room had been exposed to the elements – a broken window, a leak in the roof, a door forced open by snow.

As I started the ‘purge’, it was easy to be distracted by the memories of this storage area. It had, at one time, been a hub of activity – people coming and going, a place of rest, relaxation, as well as a place of commerce. But as progress happens, the building was used less and less. Its purpose was changed; not intentionally, at first. But slowly, over time, through lack of use, the deterioration happened, almost unnoticeable.

Can you see the spiritual parallel? Our lives, the vibrant one – filled with expectation, anticipation, joy. The sharing of your spiritual gifts with others, being so full of the Spirit, you could hardly contain it? But slowly, you settled into a routine. Before you even noticed, you moved on to something different – a new job that took more time, a family, friends – all good things, wonderful things. Inevitably, some things needed to change. Unfortunately, time spent in spiritual matters are put into the ‘storage’ room, forgotten.

And then one day, the realization hits you – I have forgotten ‘my first love’ – Jesus. I have put Him on the shelf, with the intention of bringing Him back, making room for my Saviour. The love you have for Christ has turned cold. Or you have taken it for granted.

Remember, it is not too late. Some of the old things may need to be fixed, some may need to be thrown out. But no matter where you turn, there will always be room for the One who gives you life. Take Him out of storage, and revitalize your relationship. The rewards are worth it!

To each of you, may you be blessed.

Liz Church

Pastoral Care Director

Elgin/Portland Pastoral Charge