What to Take?

As you go, preach this message: 'The kingdom of heaven is near.' Heal the sick, raise the dead, cleanse those who have leprosy, drive out demons. Freely you have received, freely give. Do not take along any gold or silver or copper in your belts; take no bag for the journey, or extra tunic, or sandals or a staff; for the worker is worth his keep. [Matthew 10:7-10]

I've got a bag. And a few extra tunics. No extra sandals or staff (score). Though I think my credit card probably counts as bringing some gold and silver.

I've got a ways to go before I'm on top of these verses. Still, I think in part Jesus is saying that what we have with us is less important than who we have with us. The whats will always break or wear out. The who is much more reliable. (I think he's probably also saying we don't need any of that stuff if we're really following and trusting. Not there yet.)

I'm feeling pretty ok about having 37.5 pounds of stuff for the next couple of years. It's certainly a step up (down?) from the amount of things I feel I "need" here in the states.

I get on a plane in 5 hours. I'm excited, sad, joyful, ready, unready, overwhelmed, and more things than I can name. I'm incredibly thankful for the love that my family and friends have shown me the past weeks and months.

I'm ready to be done getting ready. And I'm even more ready to be done with goodbyes... I don't think I've got a lot of tears left at this point. But again, I'm thankful that those tears have been as much of joy at where and how God is leading as they are of sorrow for goodbyes. I'll miss all of you I won't be seeing for a while.