We often create sentimental attachments to memories. For many years, the drive to Mountain Mission School in Grundy, VA was long, winding roads with twists, turns, steep drops (without guardrails), coal mines, train cars loaded with coal, homes that clearly shouldn’t be lived in, etc. These were all landmarks that connected the dots to our destination. Weather often impacted the drive and made the trip stressful, too. But none of those things seemed to matter once we got there. They were part of the memories that we made year after year.
Last year, GPS took us on a detour. The first several miles were open highway, which was newly blasted through the mountains and gave us unbelievable views. The final few miles were NOT quite as appealing. Narrow, sharp, and steep, the paved path they called a road was treacherous. We trusted the process, but yikes! Hearts were pounding. Hands were a little sweaty. Sketchy is the first word that comes to mind. This wasn’t the kind of rollercoaster I preferred. We obviously made it to the school, but we were definitely hoping that this year, the new route on the main road would be completed.
As we journeyed to the school this year, I found myself somewhat sad. I found myself reminiscing about all of those places that we used to drive by and the memories that were attached. Memories are certainly important. But what if we’re so stuck in those old routes that we miss out on the new and incredible things that God’s trying to show us? We could continue to drive that longer road. It would eventually lead us to our destination. But we risk not seeing what He prepared for us. The things beyond our imagination or what we could ever think to ask for.
As I’m looking forward to this Christmas season that’s approaching, I’m hopeful. I’m hopeful that God will help me to see the beauty of years past and the most wonderful moments that have shaped me over time. But I’m also hopeful that He opens my eyes to see the indescribable wonder in the new and maybe even the unknown. That I don’t miss the awe. That I can appreciate, value, and recognize the “old” while welcoming the “new”.
Isaiah 43:18-19 ~ Remember not the former things, nor consider the things of old. Behold, I am doing a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it?