He told them to take nothing for their journey except a walking stick—no food, no traveler’s bag, no money. (Mark 6:8)

I continue to find in this walk with Jesus that I must hold all things loosely. This includes people, places, and things. For when He calls us onward, we best be packing light.

“Onward Christian soldier” is a phrase we dare not understand until we hear the trumpet calling us to a new land.

Most often, I’ve walked forward with tears streaming and sad waves of the hands over my shoulder to those I’ve dearly loved.

As I get older, I pack much lighter. I am able to trust Jesus and move immediately rather than grabbing every household appliance, blessed friendship, or seasonal assignment that was beautiful but finished.

In the past, I think Jesus had to pull me along with a bazillion bags I was determined to carry with me. I rarely made it easy and very often put up quite the fight.

So, I am learning to leave better without needing answers that He is not ready to give. I simply trust Him.

His track record with me has been one of faithfulness. Through seasons of pain and tears have come new ministries. Through struggle and labor has birthed melodies. Through fire so hot I thought I might die, came empowerment.

I’ve learned to live more like the lilies that are clothed beautifully and provided for quite nicely. I am also learning that all I need is entirely wrapped in Christ, Himself.

I can follow Him empty-handed and know every need He, alone, will meet along the journey.

Today, I’m packing light so that if tomorrow brings a new assignment requiring me to leave a land, I can freely go with no unnecessary baggage.