Study

Recently I have been reengaged with the discipline of study. I am doing this primarily through listening to audio books and lectures while I drive. I am finding it to be powerful. This practice is giving me much to think about and discern. That is why I haven't written in awhile.

One thing I have been thinking about is our use of money. I heard someone say that bank fees (ATM, overdraft, online bill pay) amount to nearly a billion dollars a year. Wow! All of those fees are avoidable with a little work and focused effort. Some of the people spending that money much be Christians.

Contrast that to the cost of a gifts through Lutheran World Relief. Here is a little excerpt from their fruit tree seedlings.

Cost $40.00
Fruit trees don’t just flower. They provide income, shade, and bio-diversity. For a farmer struggling to make ends meet, a grove of fruit trees can mean better food for the family and more income. Help a farmer bloom this year.

Imagine if we redirected our bank fees toward someone who needs help..

Gratitude

One of the disciplines I have been cultivating lately is gratitude. I have realized that gratitude helps keep me centered in what is real and to not get wound up in the trivial or mundane. That isn't to say that I don't give those things my time, I do but they do not occupy the same place of importance as the more foundational things in life.

Gratitude also helps me not get too wrapped up in the pain I am facing daily. It is easy for me to focus on what I perceive is "not right" with me and forget all that is good and whole in my life.

I am continually feeling called to not let things slip by or to not wait until some time in the future. There is a sense that we must learn to live life now and in the fullness of what we have now. I am also learning to express my thankfulness for blessings in my life.

If you are reading this I am thankful for you...