There was a family whose village was hit by a big flood. During the night, when the flood waters was only about knee high and the waters rising so fast, they decided to evacuate.
The family members was at some distance and were getting ready to go farther to a much safe placer. The mother suddenly remembered a ‘very important thing” she left behind. She said she will go back to the house one more time to get it. She did not explain what it was. It could have been an important document, a land title or money. The children prevented her from going back but she insisted and rushed back to the house. When she reached the house, the flood water suddenly surged carrying with it a big boulder and a large log. The house was swept away. The mother of the house was never seen since then.
The mother lost her life due to her attachment to that important thing.
Most of us have many baggage in life. These can be attachments to material things, bitterness and grudges we refuse to let go, riches that we are afraid to lose, power that we do not want to relinquish. They hamper our journey to our most important mission and purpose in life.
When Jesus sent the 72 disciples to spread the word of God, he made them travel light:
At that time the Lord appointed seventy-two others whom he sent ahead of him in pairs to every town and place he intended to visit.
He said to them,
“The harvest is abundant but the laborers are few;
so ask the master of the harvest
to send out laborers for his harvest.
Go on your way;
behold, I am sending you like lambs among wolves.
Carry no money bag, no sack, no sandals;
and greet no one along the way.
” (Luke 10: 1-12)And the 72 were successful in their mission.
The seventy-two returned rejoicing, and said,
“Lord, even the demons are subject to us because of your name.”
Jesus said, “I have observed Satan fall like lightning from the sky.
Behold, I have given you the power to ‘tread upon serpents’ and scorpions
and upon the full force of the enemy and nothing will harm you. Nevertheless, do not rejoice because the spirits are subject to you,
but rejoice because your names are written in heaven.”
(Luke 10: 17-20)
Insight:
As we journey in life, learn to trust in God’s provision. Stop worrying about what tomorrow brings. God will provide. Focus on the most important goal of your life.
Reflection:
What is your focus in life? Is it material success? Or your salvation?
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, grant us the grace to see the most important things that matter in life. Help us to trust in your divine providence. Teach us to travel light. Amen.
