Travelling Light

Having the ability to travel light and well is a real skill. Many of us will have had the experience of having to climb stairs with baggage where we wished we had packed a little less. At those times, we often notice those who have packed smaller bags and yet at the same time appear to have just the right clothing or gear and appear dressed and equipped well for every occasion. We also notice those who have much bigger heavier bags and the added difficulty that larger bags add to any trip. Packing well often means having learnt from experience and the advice of others, thoughtful planning and leaving unnecessary items behind.

As we journey through life there is also the encouragement to learn to travel lightly and well. At the end of the term, we are encouraged to reflect and learn from our experiences, pack what is essential for the journey ahead and leave the rest behind. Where people have the capacity to learn through challenging experiences and disappointment and then leave them behind, they travel well.  Similarly, where people have the ability and desire to learn from success and celebrate with humility they can leave the glory behind, and step lightly into the next opportunity. We can also make a difference as we support others to travel light, through listening and encouragement.

God invites us at the end of each day and each term to reflect and grow. God is always ready to listen. We can say a prayer of thanks for our successes and the good things that come our way and also pray for the wisdom and humility to learn through hurts, challenges and disappointments. Having reflected and learnt through the experience, we are invited to leave our worries and burdens at the foot of the cross, pray for wisdom and guidance and travel forward lightly with God at our side.