Taking the Time to Make a Difference

There's a radio commercial in recent memory that advertised a source book of wisdom in two simple lines, or something like that. I can't remember any of the examples, but they were clever sayings from witty and perceptive observers of the human condition. That kind of thing appeals to me -- up to a point. The line is sometimes blurred between being smart and being a smart aleck. A recent publication from the organization, "Alternatives for Simple Living," struck my fancy. It included some brief sayings from a variety of sources -- from bumper stickers to lectionary readings, from the Old Testament and new prophets. The suggestion is that a Christian, or a Christian family, might reflect and meditate on the collected sayings, one a day, one at a time, as a way to observe Lent. Here are some samples from the collection from the early days of Lent: o Use it up, wear it out, make it do or do without. - A Shaker aphorism. o There are two ways to get enough. One is to continue to accumulate more and more. The other is to desire less. -- G.K. Chesterton o In our every deliberation, we must consider the impact of our decisions on the next seven generations. -- from the Great Law of the Iroquois Confederation o My other car is a bicycle. -- Bumper Sticker o Is it not enough for you to feed on the good pasture? Must you also trample the rest of your pasture with your feet? Is it not enough for you to drink clear water? Must you also muddy the rest with your feet? - Ezekiel 34:18

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When my family moved from the city where we had lived for more than 10 years, it was extremely difficult for me to "give up" the stuff I had accumulated. Now that we are in our new home for well over 10 years, my supply of stuff has increased to over capacity again. When we moved, I remember thinking that it was like a great Lent, a time of cleansing, a time of focusing on what was really valuable. Perhaps it is time for another great Lent for me. Then I can say with lessened fear of being hypocritical, "How are things at your house?"

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Talk with friends or family about what you -- and they -- have used up or worn out. What have you done without? Do you know anyone who lives as if she or he "has enough?" What are the characteristics of such a person? Examine the decisions made by your city or state, and by our nation. Pick a law or a custom and discuss what its impact may be in seven generations. Abortion. No-fault divorce. Genetic manipulation. When you have observed the world around you -- in your home and in society -- judge what you see in the light of Gospel values. Does having more than you need hurt someone who has less than is needed? When you have made your reflection, or your meditation, or perhaps your examination of conscience, take action to make the world better. Use up what you need, but give up something extra. Seriously consider a lessening of what is "enough" for your life. Use a bicycle instead of a car, literally and figuratively. Teach a child the value of "enough." Observe 40 days of Lent in a way that will benefit yourself and your neighbor. Work together with others who see the injustice of muddied pastures and streams.

Find out more about "Alternatives for Simple Living" at (800) 821-6153, or at www.SimpleLiving.org.

Send your comments about "Taking Time to Make a Difference" to Paul Leingang. Contact the CFM USA Office about subscribing for your newspaper.