Jesus looked at him and loved him. “One thing you lack,” he said. “Go, sell everything you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.” Mark 10:21
“The real antidote is an attitude that can be summed up in two words: generosity and detachment. We don’t overcome consumerism by plunging ourselves into poverty, but by learning how to detach from possessions. As we learn how to hold on to them more loosely, we will share them more freely and generously. In the Gospels, Jesus does not tell rich people that they need to become poor; rather, that they need to be generous in giving of their riches to others.”
Joe Paprocki in 7 Keys to Spiritual Wellness: Enriching Your Faith by Strengthening the Health of Your Soul (Chicago: Loyola, 2012) 51.
I have safely returned from Africa. The header photo above serves as a reminder to me that the light of Christ is shining in the Dark Continent.
Those who follow the teachings of Jesus, do not end up destitute, but rather distributors of His material blessings. Obedience also frees us from the clutches of consumerism.
Many Africans that I met this past week inspired me. Their resolve to obey God through the enjoyment and sharing of His blessings moved me to a deeper level of trust in my generosity.
What about you? Is your life characterized by consumerism? Do you amass money and material possessions for yourself or do you richly share trusting God to provide for your needs?