First Baptist Church of Herndon

The Packing

Linda Soller | May 29, 2023

If you love to travel this may not be the blog for you. Then again, if you like to travel but hate the packing, it could be perfect.  I’m not sure why, but the packing is the part of travel I truly dislike. There are just too many variables. I begin by checking the weather predictions, then I start thinking about what if they have the weather wrong. Before too long I’ve moved on to worrying about which piece of luggage to carry. It’s not like l have a ton of choices, but even three choices can create confusion. Well in advance I start setting aside my “must have” clothing items. I wouldn’t want to have to do any last-minute laundry! I think you can  see my problem. Yes, I am overthinking again. The sad part is I love to see new places and old familiar ones, but by the time I get there the packing experience has me worn down.

I do admire people who are easy going packers, they’re usually pretty laid back overall.  I suspect they have some wonderful travel experiences and likewise some fun stories. But for me, once I survive packing, I want to get to my destination. I like to know where I am headed and exactly how I will get there. I want to know what is waiting for me. I’m not much for the “we’ll know it when we see it approach.”

Jesus tried to prepare His disciples as best He could for the time when He joined His father in heaven. The disciples were confused. Jesus said there would be a place for them, but He didn’t explain in geographical terms.  His directions for how to get there didn’t include street names. I think of the disciples often, traveling constantly, not knowing where their next meal might come from or if they would be welcome. I admire their devotion.  I wish I could say that I would have been such a disciple, but I know I probably would have failed. When others dropped everything and followed Jesus, I would have missed my chance of a lifetime because I would still be dealing with the packing.

Be the love in the world  : )   Linda