It is very rare that I check out thrift stores or donation bins. As a tall person it’s more difficult to find sizes that fit. And yes there is a bit of old pride that exists.
However, yesterday something grabbed my attention. I noticed a new backpack on top of one of the donation boxes where I live. And an Eddie Bauer backpack at that!
My current backpack was quite old and tattered. One of the zippers did not work, fabric was worn through, and years of travel had taken its toll. It also carrier old memories, such as the time it contained the few items I had with me while temporarily homeless. And the backpack originally came from a former not so well intentioned acquaintance.
So, I gratefully and immediately took the backpack – my first new one in many years. I carefully transferred the contents from the old backpack. The interview folio, resumes, notebooks, my pocket AA big book, sunglasses (still an old pair), pens, highlighters, some candy and a water bottle. All now carefully organized and placed in this precious new backpack.
Then I tried it on! Such comfort. And so much lighter.
Gratefully, I looked at the old backpack. Perhaps I would save it in case I needed it for the future. Yet it had served its purpose. Time to let go and discard it.
The thought then occurred to me – that’s how it is with God. When God brings something new in our lives, He does not intend for us to hold on to the old. He encourages us to let go, to surrender, to give up the former tattered things. And God will provide something new with greater comfort to serve the needs He knows that we currently have. By letting go of the old, we can fully put on the new things God has for us.
The verse I had memorized when I gave my heart to God as a child now had new meaning.
“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come. The old is gone, the new is here.” 2 Corinthians 2:17 NIV
I’m learning at Serenity Street how God provides for our needs in a way that enables us to move forward into new things. So thankful.
