Putting things down

Have you ever been in a situation where in order to carry what you know is most important you have just got to put something down?  It happened to me today; (New Years Eve) I was tinkering (playing) with a Christmas gift and my wife wanted a hand to lift shopping from the car.  I might well have justified my focus at that time by arguing I was achieving a most impressive score, but it really would not have impressed Lynne, in fact she might have pomelled me with some handy blunt instrument!  As I approach a new year I sense there are things I need to lay aside, not necessarily because they are evil, but maybe they are distractions from that which is most important.  I need empty hands in order to lay hold of something that will bless me and ultimately bless others and God.  Jesus said "whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me" .   It is when we appreciate what Jesus let go of (Philippians 2) and why, that we will loosen our grasp on self-interest and take hold of the cross as an all consuming passion.  This will not be to earn 'brownie-points' with God but to express our gratitude for all He has already done for us.  A Happy New You ~ you will travel well if you travel light!