First Baptist Church of Herndon

Tupperware Transition

Linda Soller | Jan 23, 2017

When contemplating a baking project, such as holiday cookies, my approach has always been to err on the side of having plenty of backup supplies. Maybe it’s the excitement of all the shoppers in the baking section and my need to participate. Regardless, there I am buying another bag of sugar, a bag of flour, and a box each of dark brown and light brown sugar just to be safe. Seldom do I need such a bounty of supplies. Who am I kidding? I never use all the supplies. If only I could learn to make the best of what I have before getting carried away. Years ago, I invested in sturdy Tupperware containers of different sizes and matching blue tops to house my baking supplies. It took multiple purchases which could have been prevented had I really thought through what I needed in advance. However, having the matching containers, clearly marked, made it all seem official and visually pleasing in my cabinets. I liked it.

The same can be true in other life activities. Have you ever embarked on an exercise program, by starting with the purchase of new walking clothes? You are certain you will stick with your plan if you are dressed like you know what you are doing. Have you ever decided to organize your home office, by first visiting the store for a suitable mix of storage containers, file folders, etc.? Well, you get the picture. How often do we decide to do something without considering the process, direction, or even the desired end result before we dive in. Trust me, it’s a costly personality trait.

I fear we sometimes miss a calling from God because we, in our own infinite wisdom, have started moving in the direction we want. We don’t always know why. Sometimes we know exactly why, and it has nothing to do with what God wants. Once we head down our road we humans can be reluctant to change course, admit we may have gotten ahead of ourselves, or even worse, own up to possibly being wrong.  What’s that God? You didn’t want me to go in and take over? What do You mean You wanted me to be on that “grunt work” committee? Are You sure I didn’t need to boss the others around?

Recently I cleaned my cabinets, discarded the items well past their sell by date, and shrunk my abundant supply of things I use in the kitchen. Remarkably, I paused to think about what I really need to have on hand. It’s enabling me to part with a fair number of still sturdy Tupperware containers. Don’t worry, I’ve found them a good home. The transition began. Try to listen first. Try to think of what you need to achieve. Try to consider how to best serve others. Oh yes, and listen some more before you move forward with your plan. Let your transition begin!

Have a great week!     : o)  Linda