Possessions

Month 3 of this journey of 7.

This month, the idea is to give away 7 things (possessions) each day for a month or what is equivalent to 7 things per day by the end of the month.

C and I are not being legalistic about this month, as in we are not keeping a tally of everything we give away. Instead we are earnestly praying that our eyes and ears are open to the needs of those around us. We have a growing pile of bags filled with clothes and small household items that we do not wear or do not use often or at all. However, we don’t want to simply pass on the unwanted, old, and useless items, then pat ourselves on the back and call it a day.

I’m learning more and more that a true follower of God lives sacrificially. Giving is a part of living. That means I am to give sacrificially. What if we all lived as people who give the shirts off their backs and the shoes off their feet for all who are  in need? People who give of their own resources in order for others’ basic needs to be met and in order for others to simply feel loved and appreciated. Would not the world be a different place? Would not our community or our church look different if we loved our Creator above all else, above our cars, TVs, smart phones, ipads, homes, etc.?

That is who I want to be. Someone who gives until it hurts, until my time, energy, and money is all spent; someone who loves God and lives like it.

George Bernard Shaw doesn’t sugar coat it:

“This is the true joy in life, the being used for a purpose recognized by yourself as a mighty one; the being thoroughly worn out before you are thrown on the scrap heap; the being a force of Nature instead of a feverish little selfish cod of ailments and grievances complaining that the world will not devote itself to making you happy.”

Jesus loves people. He lived a life that proved it. I want that life, too. I want to be a part of that story, living a life marked by love and sacrifice.