Scripture: Luke 14:33
In the same way, none of you who are unwilling to give up all of your possessions can be my disciple.
Thought for the Day: Building on what was discussed yesterday, I reference these challenging words from Richard Foster (Freedom of Simplicity):
Jesus Christ and all the writers of the New Testament call us to break free of mammon lust and live in joyous trust….They point us toward a way of living in which everything we have we receive as a gift, and everything we have is cared for by God, and everything we have is available to others when it is right and good. This reality frames the heart of Christian simplicity. It is the means of liberation and power to do what is right and to overcome the forces of fear and avarice.
The thought of true liberation from things and stuff is terrifying because it requires us to go beyond saying, “I’m willing to give up all my possessions,” and actually give them up. Like the seagulls in the movie, Finding Nemo, our words are often: “Mine, Mine, Mine…” We tend to do more than have possessions, we possess our possessions. And this eventually leads to our possessions possessing us. Where can you start changing your mindset? How can you begin looking at one item among your many as actually belonging to God, not you? Maybe you’ll do better than I do, but I have a feeling it will be a challenge for most all of us.
Prayer: If it would help me, O Lord, allow me to relinquish something I really like. Teach me to let go with a spirit of gratitude for all that has been entrusted to me. It is not mine. None of it! Forgive me when I act as if I did something special to deserve it or acquire it all on my own. Amen.
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