A Path to Simplicity #3

#3. Develop a habit for giving things away.

Take a moment to honestly reflect on how much you acquire and compare it to how much you give away.

Allow me to share with you a story from my family. My family has never been the formal gift giving family. To be honest, I don’t know if I have ever bought a Christmas gift for an immediate family member. A few years ago we decided that we, as a family, would put money together to purchase and prepare a care package/hamper for another family living within our city. Everyone contributed with their finances and their time. On one cold, snowy Winnipeg afternoon our family got in the van and went off to deliver the hamper. It was a rewarding experience, both for us, the givers, and the receivers. There is a feeling of liberation when you learn to give without expectation. Start by giving something small away, continue to give until you make it a habit.

It is interesting to ponder the idea of giving away your possessions. Jesus talked a fair amount about giving. Not having any sort of substantial wealth himself, Jesus relied on the charity and the giving spirt of those around him. Challenge yourself to give. 

Lastly, take a moment to chew on this quote, it is a little sobering…

“Masses of things that are not needed complicate life. They must be sorted and stored and dusted and re-sorted and re-stored ad nauseam. Most of us could get rid of half our possessions without any serious sacrifice.” – Foster

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Jordan Michalski
Student Ministries Assistant | Soul Sanctuary