Downsize - Simplify to edify

In an effort to make Jesus a higher priority in our home, we are gradually taking steps to eradicate the inundation of distraction in our lives. We have had our eyes open to pedestal on which sits the many things that take our time, energy, and focus away from our Father, our faith, and our family. We decided that we need to simplify, to learn and practice the discipline of simplicity. To take the first step of many which will lead to a life of discipline. A fruitful life that edifies the kingdom in which we serve as believers.

Years ago, I read a book called Celebration of Discipline by Richard Foster. I remember feeling that those disciplines were insurmountable mountains, and that I lacked the will or the strength to achieve those. I felt painfully inadequate to live a disciplined life. Not to mention, what consumed my thoughts at the time was the opinion that such a life would be incredibly boring and difficult. Now, after "growing up" some, I long for those disciplines in my life. The peace they bring, the joy wrought from the lack of excess and stress. The covering and protection of discipline. I hope to reread the book some and make the other disciplines a priority in the coming months. For now, I feel God's plan is to focus on simplicity. "Be still and know I am God."

So, now I face the task of preparing a plan of action. A plan that isn't too much too soon. Cold turkey is never a good strategy. Also, a plan that won't cause culture shock to my Dora and Curious George addicted children. A plan that honors God, and family. Just two simple steps.

Step 1, get rid of stuff. We have way too much stuff. Toys not played with, books not read, dishes, what-nots, tons of clothes, tools, materials/supplies, etcetera, etcetera, etcetera. Stuff that takes up space. Stuff that costs money. Stuff that requires upkeep, work, or cleaning. Stuff that is not used and does not serve any practical purpose other than to be owned. Stuff that we think we have to have because others have it or we may need it or whatever. This stuff, if we consider it objectively, is a limit to our efficiency, our productivity, and most importantly our relationships. If I don't have to clean it up or put it away, I can use that time for my family and my God. If I don't have to pay for it or pay on it, I can use that money to invest in my family and my God. Our stuff is a pretty good indicator of our treasure. Matthew, chapter 6:

“Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. “But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys, and where thieves do not break in or steal; for where your treasure is, there your heart will be also."

Step 2, get rid of distraction. Mainly, in our case, tv. Our family is kind of addicted. My Lola asks for Dora, or Diego, or Curious George at least 10 times a day from 5-8. For Ashley and I, DVR was the best invention since buttered popcorn. We watch American Idol, X Factor, etc. Well, I canceled our satellite today. I'm excited that we'll save those dollars each month, and that our family will have more quality time together. But I won't lie. Dora makes a nice little babysitter when my kids are running around like screaming savage banshees. Second order of business, internet. This one won't totally be done away, but we will set parameters (a schedule). Something to keep facebook, twitter, etc from hijacking every free second of every day. Luke, chapter 10:

Now as they were traveling along, He entered a village; and a woman named Martha welcomed Him into her home. She had a sister called Mary, who was seated at the Lord’s feet, listening to His word. But Martha was distracted with all her preparations; and she came up to Him and said, “Lord, do You not care that my sister has left me to do all the serving alone? Then tell her to help me.” But the Lord answered and said to her, “Martha, Martha, you are worried and bothered about so many things; one thing is necessary, for Mary has chosen the good part, which shall not be taken away from her.”

I don't want to miss the 'good part' because I and my family are so caught up with the 'preparations' (the things that we think MUST be done). The word promises us days of trouble, but a light yoke. Let's not choose to bring distractions and responsibility into our lives that only increases our trouble. Let's seek our savior above our wants and above our comforts. I'll leave you with one last passage. Matthew, chapter 6:

“And who of you by being worried can add a single hour to his life? “And why are you worried about clothing? Observe how the lilies of the field grow; they do not toil nor do they spin, yet I say to you that not even Solomon in all his glory clothed himself like one of these. “But if God so clothes the grass of the field, which is alive today and tomorrow is thrown into the furnace, will He not much more clothe you? You of little faith! “Do not worry then, saying, ‘What will we eat?’ or ‘What will we drink?’ or ‘What will we wear for clothing?’ “For the Gentiles eagerly seek all these things; for your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. “But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you."

“So do not worry about tomorrow; for tomorrow will care for itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own."