This Old Store Don't Store No More


I thoroughly enjoy photographing older structures that symbolized the past. I have no clue about the history of this old general store in Hoschton, Georgia but I imagine it was quite the gathering place for purchasing groceries and swapping stories at one time. The owners of the property do a fine job of keeping up the property and maintaining the structural integrity of the building. But, this old store don't store no more.

Stores have a purpose. They are built for selling merchandise. When they no longer fulfill that function then they cease to be a store. You were created (built) for a purpose too. Paul writes:

For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. (Ephesians 2:9)

The word "handiwork" is also translated as creation, workmanship, masterpiece, accomplishment and His poetry. You are not an after thought. You were and are designed for a special purpose and plan that God prepared far in advance of you ever being born. You are on God's mind and in His heart and He desires for you to live out good works through a life empowered by Christ Jesus.

And while you may not be a store, Jesus tells us that we are salt and light.

“You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot.
“You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven. (Matthew 5:13-16)

Salt and light have a purpose but are no good if they no longer serve the usefulness for which they were intended. Salt is supposed to add flavor and light is supposed to help guide you and others through darkness.

Don't be unsalty. Don't hide the light. Glorify God. Fulfill what you were created for.

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