An inventory of things.

Have you taken inventory lately?

I’m seating in my office looking at a shelf full of books. Last night, I changed my closet from winter to summer wear. I kept some things, discarded some things, and plan to donate some things.

The last two weeks were full of fun and vacationing. I have gathered more memories, more places to visit, and more insight to the life all around me. I enjoyed listening to hip hop karaoke from those a few generations behind me. The lyrics hindered my joining in the sing-along. Wow, that was a wake up call to the person I once was. I appreciated the fun near the beach with crowds dancing outside to the live “Grown Folks Music” of Brasswind, a band composed completely of retired/active duty military and local teachers. A big thank you for your service!

I began this BLOG journey months ago with the post, We Filled a Dumpster. It was a reflection of things past and the memories shared with our descendants over the generations.

This morning I started a new study in the Biblical book of Ezra, a priest and scribe. I am one easily fascinated by the stories of war. The battles we face everyday and the fortitude needed to remain steadfast in the aftermath is a lesson in overcoming. Ezra opens with an inventory of the spoils of war and the descendants of a people displaced in exile.

What captured me in the reading of chapters 1 and 2 is the record of inventory of things and the people that returned from captivity. I thought about the things I put in that dumpster months ago. I thought about my descendants, past and present. I thought about the experiences I have had over the years as inventory to the person I am today and the new experience that may determine who I become tomorrow. The book of Ezra mentions descendants of singers, servants, gatekeepers, people of province, and more. It list items such as bowls, plates, knives, and livestock. When is the last time you counted the number of bowls, plates, and knives in your house?

What fascinates me and excites my awe and wonder is the thought that there is a record of my coming and goings, a record of my thoughts and actions, an inventory of me that will be presented when the exile to this earth is over. What intimidates me and gives me peace, is the loving grace of Christ. That I am counted as heir and descendant of creator GOD is an awesome responsibility.

Although my days of hip hop are beyond me, I still reminisce and dance around to a good beat. I still shop and gather new things. I still seek the Lord daily and grow exponentially in the calling to do his will.

May the inventory of my life be pleasing to Christ.

Always grateful,