“Do not remember the former things, nor consider the things of old. Behold, I will do a new thing, now it shall spring forth; Shall you not know it? I will even make a road in the wilderness and rivers in the desert. Isaiah 43:18-19 (NKJV)
It was way back in1959 through1960 when the last restoration improvements were made to the Federal Capitol, one of our countries most cherished landmark buildings. Authorities hope that after sixty million dollars and four years of intensive labor, the Capitol Building will be better than new. Just the scaffolding needing for this project is a marvel within itself, with a combined weight 1.1 million pounds, 75,000+ pieces of equipment, 52 miles of scaffold pipe, and 2 miles of decking, enough to build a sidewalk 5 feet wide x 2 miles long from the US Capitol to the Lincoln Memorial. If it hadn’t been for that massive scaffolding system, that took almost a year to erect, workers would have never been able to reach the heights necessary to accomplish the task. But, once the project is complete, that scaffolding must come down.
How foolish would it be for the building manager to run outside on that day with his hands waving in the air saying “stop, stop, stop, you can’t take this scaffolding down!” He would probably be committed, or at the very least loose his job. Why? Because all that effort and work would be for naught, and no one would ever be able to enjoy the beauty of this magnificent structure unless that scaffolding comes down.
People and relationships can be much the same. I recently heard a dear friend of mine say, “People come into your life for reasons, seasons, or a lifetime,” and that is so true. Some people and relationships where only meant to help get you to the next leg of your journey toward the fulfillment of your destiny and purpose. What I have found is that when you hang on to something or someone past that designated time, what may have started for good could do harm.
Have you ever thought about how much your circle of influence has actually changed over the last five, ten, or fifteen years? I’m sure you’re probably thinking about people and connections that are no longer a part of your routine life, like previous coworkers, fellow students, church members and others. It’s only human nature to feel sad or find it hard to let go. But, in this new season of life God may be leading you to “Let it go,” so He can make room for that next person that’s supposed to be in your life. And, just maybe that next one could be for a lifetime!