The Trade-In
Trading requires two things: letting go and taking hold. We, in our fallen state, are prone to cling to what is bad for us and often miss opportunities to take hold of what is good for us. One of the things that can be difficult to let go is regret.
This past week I had an opportunity to deny myself, my comfort, and choose someone else’s preferences and priorities. I did not embrace that opportunity, and in the process of setting boundaries to protect my own time and energy and resources I caused hardship and discomfort for others. Others who are actually dear to me and not one’s I’d want to dismiss as less important or valuable than myself.
The burden of regret is a heavy one, but it can often seem irresponsible to let it go. How can I learn from my mistakes if I don’t remember them, right?
But what is it I am remembering? Do I cling to my disappointment? Do I chastise myself for selfishness with little hope that I can improve my condition? Or, do I remember with hope that there is a divine exchange available to me through the blood of Christ? Do I remember that it is no longer I that liveth, but Christ that lives in me, and the life I now live in the flesh, I live by faith in the Son of God who loved me and gave Himself for me. (Galatians 2:20)
When I remember the One who loves me, I have an opportunity through repentance (turning and agreeing with Him) to trade my regret for resolve. Yes, I am still on a journey to lose self and gain Christ. And yes, I will encounter daily opportunities to choose the right response to His love for me. I will not always make the right choice, but He will always be ready to receive my trade-in and grant me a way of escape from the temptation to seek my own way and my own path of comfort and preferences. What He offers is so much better, and I can lay aside what burdens me and run the race with endurance (resolve). (Hebrews 12:1)
What are you clinging to? What regret do you need to let go? What perspective do you need to trade for His? What offense are you carrying around with you? These are heavy burdens, and you can lay them down at His feet and receive the good gift He is offering: beauty for ashes, joy for mourning, and praise instead of heaviness (Isaiah 61:3).
Lord, Jesus Christ, be Thou my vision. Let me see through the eyes of Christ, the world around me and my place in Your Kingdom. I lay my burdens at Your feet and trust You with my life. You are ruler of all and high King of Heaven, and gladly will I serve You and follow You where ever You may lead. I hold my hands open before You to give and to receive. I accept Your charge and Your blessing, Your embrace and Your reproof. Thank you for bringing me home. In Jesus’ name, amen.
As you listen to this old hymn, worship the One who gives you sight and see with eyes of faith. Trade your vision for His.
Until next week, fellow so-journers, take His yoke upon you and learn of Him.