The Marshall train depot was built in the 1890s and used until the 1970s when passenger service discontinued. This old railroad shed is the only part of the depot that survives in 2024.
As I look at this abandoned building, I can’t help picturing what a hub of activity, emotions, and people it was! Noisy and sweaty, bumping and being bumped, people in constant motion. Some rushing to get all their luggage, others trying to keep their children together! The air filled with joyous greetings and the teary farewells. There, off to the side, a few nervously fingerling their tickets, afraid of this huge, noisy, unfamiliar vehicle. Was it really safe enough to take them to their new home?
This reminds me of the life we are living. Here we are in this noisy, sweaty world, being bumped and bumping other people. We’re in constant motion rushing to do what seems so important in the moment. We have some joyous meetings and some teary farewells. From time to time, we’re like the nervous one fidgeting on the threshold of adventure. How do we make our way through? Remember the words to Joshua on the brink of entering the Promised Land, ”Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” (Joshua-1-9)
Some day someone will see what is left behind of our lives. What will they think as they see the remains of our busy lives?