Travel Light, May 2025
That is what I was told to do. I was going on a trip that was like no other. I was to fly from Belgrade, Montana to Seattle for a layover. Then it was across the polar route to London; switch planes and then to Zürich, Switzerland. One of my brothers would meet me there and we would catch the train up to Basel.
When it came to packing a suitcase, he told me to not bring as many clothes, but just as much as I really needed. I was not to bring electrical stuff like a blow dryer, etc. because the electrical outlets were different. (This was 1979 and there were no cell phones.) A light suitcase was going to travel better.
I also needed what is now required; a passport. I was also to bring traveler’s cheques and could exchange them for the local money at American Express. When I arrived, I was to receive a briefing and, sure enough, he did set forth what the 2 weeks would look like and also gave me some tips on how he travelled, his spending time with the locals instead of being only with Americans, his behavior and attitude out in public, etc. I was to carry small amounts of money and not all of it. (What I found out later, which he reminded me when I moved to Seattle in 1980, was to put my wallet inside my jacket or coat because pickpocketing was common.) Shock of all shocks, I was to travel alone. Horrors! I knew a little German… some basic words. I made up my mind I was not going to speak any English, though. Double horrors. Gulp. He gave me some basic phrases and greetings to use. It was then up to me to go to the Bahnhof (train station), get a ticket and get on the train when it arrived.
The good news was that the first trip was a demonstration. We went to Colmar, France and my education was to begin! All in all, I had a great time over the 2 weeks I was there. I didn’t want to come home to Montana. Language (Swiss German) was a challenge because I didn’t know enough. I also found out about the fascination the Swiss had with my red hair. A work visa and a job were also necessary to stay in the country.
What does all this have to do with Personal Ministries? Well, the “baggage” you and I carry will show up in our ministry to others and our witness. Either we are drawing people to Jesus or driving them away from Him. Ouch! Through the power of Jesus we can empty our lives. The New Living Translation puts it this way,
Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us. 2 We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith. Hebrews 12:1-2a
So join me and unpack that loaded suitcase! Downsize it to the point of freedom from sin and stuff! When Jesus comes, the only thing we will be taking for that trip is the beautiful character we have formed through Him, and Him alone! Have a great day and know that you are loved! MB