drop those rocks

This morning I am really studying an article in this week's Christian Science Sentinel. It points our how unresolved issues of the past have only the weight we give them. It's not much fun to struggle uphill if you are carrying rocks in your backpack. Our path in life can seem like a difficult uphill climb. Those 'rocks' might be nagging financial demands, claims of heredity, health problems, uncomfortable personal decisions, etc.. Why continue to lug them around?

In the New Testament, Jesus came upon a man by the Pool of Bethesda. He had lain there for 38 years, always blaming lack of help for his inability to get to the pool for healing after an angel had stirred the water. Before we laugh at him, we should be aware of how many times we do the same thing, blame others for our own failings. Complain that someone else always gets there first or gets offered the job. When Jesus asks him if he wants to be made whole, he just remains focused on the predicament and doesn't answer the question. Jesus heals him anyway.

Are you feeling burdened, weighed down by thoughts of fear, jealousy, resentment? Are you resisiting the invitation from the Christ, the uplifting promises from God? Does your path to healing seemed blocked or are you ready for some true spiritual progress? Mrs. Eddy writes; "Let us set aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us".

I love the ocean and have collected sea shells for many years. I do not own a chambered nautilus, although it is my favorite of all. The nautilus seals off each chamber as it grows. But before it does, it clears out any debris, anything that might add weight. The chambers give it bouyancy. It has freedom and manuverability to travel through the ocean. No rocks to slow it down or impede progress. Not a bad role model.

As you pray about your day, take time to drop those rocks.