Scripture: Matthew 9:14-17
Journal: Where is the old getting in the way of the new that God
wants to create in you these days? How
are you holding onto the old? How do you
need to let go of it in order to receive the new?
Reflection:
We have a terrible time letting go; especially
letting go of old ways of thinking and of being. Old patterns and habits do not die easily. Why is that?
Why are we always so reluctant to let go of the old things in our lives
and our hearts? Is it because they have
become so ingrained in us that they are almost second nature; that their
disposal would feel like our death? Or is
it because we have somehow become so comfortable with them and accustomed to
them that they are like old, dysfunctional friends that we rely upon to meet
some deep and distorted need in our hearts and souls?
Whatever the case, their
effect is that there is no room in our souls to receive the new. Old and new—even old and new ways of thinking
and being—cannot exist side by side.
That’s the whole point Jesus is trying to make. “It’s a new day. The bridegroom is among you, and now within
you. Stop holding on to the old ways
like a pair of worn out blue jeans. I’ve
got new things I want to do, both within you and among you. But when you keep holding on to the old, it
is like trying to put new wine in old wineskins, it simply doesn’t work. You can’t put new life in an old, worn out
container. Therefore, get rid of the old
altogether, because I am making all things new. (Revelation 21:5) Not just some things, not just the things you
will let me make new, but all things.
So let go of the old. Throw it
out. Make room within you and among you
for the new.”
Prayer
Closing
Prayer: Thank you, Lord Jesus, that you are
continually making me a new creation by the power of your Spirit within
me. May I always be open and receptive
to that process. For your kingdom and
your glory I pray. Amen.
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