“Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us rid ourselves of every burden and sin that
clings to us and persevere in running the race that lies before us.”
–Hebrews 12:1

When I was a child, I had a toy dump truck that I would play with for hours. This store-bought toy was a rarity in our house, since all of us kids were taught to use our imaginations and make our own toys. My dad often went to the dump to throw things out, and he would find things for my sisters and I to play with. Some of my most treasured toys came from the dump.

Now let me ask you a question: Have you ever noticed how happy and carefree a child is? My dump truck has become a symbol of how children simply dump their load of problems and go on with life, leaving their worries behind. As we grow up in this modern age of technology, we sometimes become so sophisticated that we lose this childlike characteristic, allowing everyday pressures and stresses get the best of us. In doing so, we become more and more like that kid who held onto things from the dump.

The writer of Hebrews tells us to work on recapturing the quality of dumping. He makes a distinction between life’s problems and the burden of sin. We often have unfounded guilt and anxiety which prevents us from living life to its fullest. Sometimes there is a pet sin in our lives which needs to be dealt with. Whatever the case, let my dump truck be a symbol for you.

Practice giving everything to God. Talk to Him as you would an earthly friend, for indeed He wants to be your best friend, loving you more than you can fathom. If there is a sin that you need to forsake, do it knowing that the practicing of that sin grieves God’s heart. If you feel powerless, ask God for the power to dump whatever you are carrying in His lap, and go on living the abundant life that Jesus spoke about.

Thank you for reading this, and may the Lord give you a wonderful week! We are trying to reach people who are hurting, so if God lays it on your heart, please consider becoming a partner with us. If you would like to make a donation, please visit www.hcmachaplains.org and click on the Donate Now link. You may also send your donation to HCMA (Healthcare Chaplains Ministry Association). Our ID number is 560. The address is 377 E. Chapman Ave., Suite 260, Placentia, CA 92870.

If you have questions, comments or prayer requests for Timothy or Stephanie Burdick, please call 641-715-3900, ext. 874157.