Simplicity + Generosity
A life marked by simplicity and generosity
As followers of Jesus, we want to seek him first and trust that he will provide for our needs. In the knowledge that everything we have is a gift freely given by God, we can freely share what we have with others.
Biblical simplicity is a desire to uncomplicate our lives so that we can give our full attention to the most important things - loving God, and loving our neighbor. Matthew 6:33 says:
“Seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”
Ignatius of Loyola referred to this as The First Principle and Foundation:
“Our only desire and our one choice should be this: I want and I choose what better leads to God’s deepening life in me.”
The journey of simplicity involves exposing our compulsions, relinquishing control, renouncing our need to own and possess. And yet, as followers of Jesus, we probably shouldn’t be surprised about the appearance of such a paradox because so much of the teaching of Jesus is completely subversive. In Matthew 10:39, Jesus says:
“Whoever finds their life will lose it, and whoever loses their life for my sake will find it.”
Like every practice, there is an inward journey with simplicity and generosity that results in outward expression. The inner journey begins with trust - trusting that God sees us, and knows what we need. When we trust that God is good we will live with a willingness to share the good things we have with others - whether that is time, energy, money or possessions.
Session video
Personal Reflection
Take some time to reflect on the following questions:
- Do I trust that God is good and that he is caring for me?
- What do I reach for for comfort, courage and companionship outside of God?
- What does my consumption say about what I value?
- In what ways are the things I have or want complicating my life or getting in the way of me following Jesus?
- What is God’s invitation to me regarding simplicity and generosity?
Stories of simplicity & generosity
Session Resources
To go further with this session, take a look at some of the following activities, readings and other resources:
Activations
- Eulogy vs Resume
- Fasting
- Me and My Phone
- Money, Clothes and Possessions
- Simplicity of Speech
- Suggested Practices