Baggage Claim

Baggage Claim...What comes to mind when you think of that? Most people think about the place that they pick up their baggage or luggage when they are at the airport...this occurs when they are arriving to or leaving their destination. Here is the definition of baggage claim: the location in an airport where arriving passengers collect luggage that was carried in the hold of the aircraft.

Now many of us have traveled to several destinations: New York, Atlanta, Cancun and many others. For each place, we generally like to buy mementos or souvenirs to remind of us the places we've been...those items become a part of our baggage that we pick up at baggage claim. Here is the definition for baggage:

1. trunks, suitcases, etc., used in traveling; luggage.

2. the portable equipment of an army.

3. things that encumber one's freedom, progress, development, or adaptability; impediments: intellectual baggage that keeps one from thinking clearly; neurotic conflicts that arise from struggling with too much emotional baggage.

4. Disparaging and Offensive- a prostitute or disreputable man/ woman.

So now ask yourself...what type of baggage do you have.. But when you go to the baggage claim, do you enjoy carrying it on your own or do you prefer to call and ask the concierge to help you carry it to where you need to go? Well, spiritually...there is the best concierge that you can call on and his name is Jesus...he can carry your load...and even better than that...take the things from you that you don't need to carry anymore! Why...after a long flight would you want to carry luggage that you don't need to. Remember: there are many types of luggage/baggage that you may see on the baggage claim: some Louis Vuitton, Hermes, D&B and Coach..but each one of them cost a price. Do you like to carry baggage that looks nice on the outside, but carries a mess on the inside...baggage that you paid a high cost for? Looking spiritually..what cost did you pay for the baggage you are carrying now?- loss of joy... loss of peace of mind, health, abuse? What type of baggage are you really carrying?- is in branded in jealousy, bitterness, selfishness, pride, envy, anger or uncleanness? Or have you returned your old baggage in for new LUGGAGE that is branded in love, joy, peace, gentleness, faith, goodness, humbleness, patience? Check Galatians 5:22-23 to look at your receipt.

Are you willing to pay the high cost of carrying that baggage....are you comfortable paying a concierge that only wants your money? Or would you like a concierge that offers life, souvenirs, mementos, and quality brand luggage?- a concierge that will carry your luggage at no cost, because he already paid the price! Romans 10:9 is always there if you want to keep your baggage at the baggage claim and continue your vacation with the past behind you.

Ask yourself, why am I still carrying this baggage..why haven't I put in my return and cashed in on the amazing things that are available to me? Let go of the Louis Vuitton, D&B, and Coach....don't put a pretty name, or high cost on what has affected you spiritually, emotionally, physically or mentally...don't try to dress it up...let go of the postcards from Vegas, the heartache from Kentucky, the beach in Florida.

*Until Next Time...Be Encouraged*