Those who use the things of the world should not become attached to them. For this world as we know it will soon pass away. 1 Corinthians 7:31
“If you are attached to the things of this earth, you should give alms sufficient to enable you to punish your avarice by depriving yourself of all that is not absolutely necessary for life.”
Jean Marie Baptiste Vianney (1786-1859) in Saints’ Quotes: Holy Quotations for Purification of the Soul, Collection on Alms.
I arrived safely in Cape Town last night. I shot the new header photo in the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront just before dinner. Today, we focus to preparing for the “Stations of Generosity” training.
When I travel, I pack light. I take only what I need. In the words of Vianney, only what is “absolutely necessary for life.” The rest is a waste of time and energy to carry around.
But we get attached to things don’t we. We reason, “I need this.” or “I need that.” In reality, we need none of the things of this earth. All we need is Christ.
So, how do we tame the flesh or “punish your avarice” lest it destroy us? We should share with the poor, or in ancient terms. Give alms generously.
At GTP, we are engaging a program among the poorest of poor, all across Malawi. We have a team of five training the Sunday school teachers and community leaders in each district to give God what you have.
What does everyone have in Malawi? Maize. Corn. The curriculum we helped create is spreading generosity all over the country. After the “Stations” training here, we will head there.
To support our efforts in Malawi, please click here to make a gift today. Video of the effort forthcoming. We plan to shoot it on this trip.