The beginning of a new year is a threshold time, a time to reflect and dream. To have space to dream, I know I firstly need to clear some space. Some of that space is in my soul, but part of it also is also in my house!

I like to keep things, because they often have memories associated with them, or some kind of symbolic meaning. When I see the item, it reminds me of that person or that day. However I have obviously led a very full life, as now I am besieged with stuff in every direction. I do de-clutter regularly, but different seasons of life can bring new challenges.

When i spend time in an overcluttered room, it feels heavy, and actually the joy of the room can become lost, and this can feel oppressive. There was a time in my life that i didn’t really notice this, but space and light have become more important to me as i get older.

So in January this year, i am working on letting things go- a particular challenge is paperwork. Some one suggested thst we use 20% of our ‘stuff’ 80% of the time, and that feels true. Why i have kept things i will never know- in case somebody would ask an obscure question in 20 years time? I suspect this is unlikely. Much will needed shredded, another challenge. I need to be disciplined and focussed.

Much of this seems to have a spiritual dimension too. Physical space, gives space for emotional growth and development. One of my favourite bible verses is ‘ where the spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom’ 2 Corinthians 3:17. My prayer is that my decluttering, and consolidation of what I have, will give me space to tackle new projects, and to find new directions. I do not underestimate the pain of letting some things go, but the freedom of space is my motivator.

Eternal God, You are a generous provider of all we need, but sometimes we seem greedy in what we hold on to. Lord Jesus, help us cherish things that are precious, but have the discernment to let go of the unnecessary. Help us to also share more freely with others on our planet. Holy spirit bring your wind of change and refreshing, so we can see with new clarity, to let go of what is heavy, and to live in a new lightness and freedom. Then we can follow You more closely, love You more dearly, and be more faithful stewards of the things of the earth, Amen.