A few years ago while taking a trip to Brazil, we got delayed in the security line and missed our flight, but our luggage did make the plane. The next flight did not leave until early the following day, so I had a lot of time to ponder the thought of just having the few remaining items that were in my carry-on bag for two weeks in Brazil. However, upon our arrival and much to the relief of both my wife Katia and myself, our luggage was found in the back corner of the unclaimed luggage storage at Sao Paulo International Airport.

Our bags were returned to us that day, but maybe there is some baggage that we are hanging on to that we ought to lose permanently—unforgiveness, rejection, disappointment, fear, anger, resentment, addictions.  Are we carrying around any of these bags?

Romans 12:9 (NIV)

“ Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good.”

What are we clinging to, what are we packing with us when we go to work and when we get home? If it is not something that would fall into the “good category,” then we need to let it go. Lose that baggage forever, and never go looking for it.

Lord Jesus, we are asking you to help us lay all of the unhealthy baggage that we have been carrying with us at the foot of your cross today. Help us to truly and completely forgive those who have hurt us. Set us totally free from our past so that we can fully enter into all the amazing things that you have in store for us.

 Psalm 31:19 (MSG)

“What a stack of blessing you have piled up for those who worship you”