Decluttering
Donyale Fraylon (Texas, USA)





TODAY'S READING
Luke 9:57-62


THOUGHT FOR THE DAY
What parts of my life are getting in the way of my faithful discipleship?


PRAYER FOCUS
To prioritize my relationship with Jesus





As they were walking along the road, a man said to [Jesus], “I will follow you wherever you go.” - Luke 9:57 (NIV)


When my mother died, I received several boxes of her belongings. It was comforting to have some of the things that were special to her, but I needed to declutter and make space in my home for them. I spent an afternoon clearing out one room. Afterward, I was delighted to have room for the boxes as well as open space on my countertops and shelves. However, as weeks passed, I noticed the once-open spaces became cluttered all over again. To make room for anything new, I would need to declutter again.

In today’s scripture reading, Jesus offered three people the opportunity to follow him — a precious gift that would require them to declutter their lives. Jesus explained that following him meant being willing to share in both the burdens and benefits of his life, prioritizing his kingdom-building mission above all else. Jesus’ words emphasized the importance of discipleship and helped his followers recognize who and what was keeping them from following him fully.

What holds us back from following Jesus wholeheartedly? Jesus offers us the gift of himself — to share in his life by following him every day. And with this comes the opportunity to declutter our lives to make even more room for Jesus.



TODAY'S PRAYER
Dear Lord, help us to make more space in our hearts, minds, and souls for the gift of your presence. Amen.