Simple Living in the United States

I have been reading Christopher Heuertz's book, Simple Spirituality: Learning to See God in a Broken World. There are a number of things Heuertz wrote that I don't agree with, but one area in which God has been challenging me has to do with living a simple lifestyle while caring for the needs of the poor. As I read, I think about all of the material blessings we have been given and know in my heart that my family needs to get rid of many things. A plan has come together to sell those things we absolutely don't need, pay off all of our debts, and give more of our income to the church to be used for ministry to the poor. 

A great plan, but then I get a strange thought. What if the body of Christ, the church, lived this way? What a testimony we would have in this culture of excess!! 

Why don't we do it? A proper understanding of stewardship reveals that nothing we have and nothing we are belongs to us. It is all God's. We are merely entrusted with His riches to use for His glory, ministering to His children and those He loves. This doesn't mean that we live as paupers. It means that God gave us the resources to use properly. What does that mean? In the next few days (or weeks, months, etc.), I am going to be thinking about the theology of wealth. Please share any comments or thoughts you have on the subject. Join me on this journey.

I have a number of friends who are affected by the hurricane, Gustav. While watching the news this morning I am prayerfully optimistic that New Orleans will be spared the worst of the storm. However, my good friends, Steven and Missi Perry, are going to need some help after the storm. 

Steven is the pastor of FBC Grand Isle. I spoke with him just a moment ago and he is preparing for the recovery effort in Grand Isle and the surrounding area. CNN has showed about five feet of water washing over the island. Most of the buildings are on stilts so many should be okay, but there will be a great need for clean up after the storm. 

If you are able, please gather together water bottles, gas, chainsaws, and food to send to the area. I am planning to take a group to Grand Isle on Tuesday or Wednesday, depending on how the storm works out. If you can go with me, please let me know. If you cannot go, but have some of the bold printed items above, let me know so that I can take it to those who need it. This is one of those opportunities to show God's love to people who need it. Pray for Louisiana, Texas, and all of those who are affected by the storm.