SIMPLICITY IS SIMPLE, RIGHT? - By Calvin
The practice of Christian simplicity is so simple that it's an easy discipline to complicate. At a recent retreat, Lisa and I were asked to explain the spiritual discipline of simplicity in practical terms. Good thing for us that we have some very practical suggestions.
Then I read some ancient guidance from a Christian desert dweller called Philemon of Egypt who lived sometime during the late sixth and early seventh centuries. Here's what he wrote.
Prefer a simple style of life.
Wear unremarkable clothes.
Eat simple food.
Behave in an unaffected manner.
Don't strut around as if you were important.
Speak from your heart.
Desert spirituality distills the Christian life down to its essential oils. Each of these sentences can fill a day with formative meditation. Living out each sentence will propel the disciple quickly along the journey toward a simple life in Christ. Consider the lillies in the field.
So give it a try! Are you up for the challenge?
I just read this out loud to my girls and my oldest, Megan said "That's who I want to be!"
The phrase sums up how I wish to live pretty well, except for one thing, I like pretty clothes. I don't need a princess's wardrobe, just a few pretty things. Proverbs 31:22
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You ladies really get it! Wearing simple yet pretty clothes reflects the image of Christ in the world better than fancy clothes. We know that Jesus didn't wear fancy clothes, in fact, his appearance was quite ordinary. People were attracted to Jesus because he was so friendly and caring. So keep it simple and show the love of Jesus everywhere you go.
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