Spend Less
Spend less is an ambiguous goal. Spend less than what / who? The truth is there is no formula. The challenge of this tenet is to be willing to ask more questions, take time and then be open to hearing what God says in return. It requires us to plan
We can strive to thoughtfully evaluate what we support with our spending, and we allow our spending to support products, people, and causes worthy of being supported. Spending less on creative, intentional gifts can really show our love for others, and God’s love for all. More than just an invitation to say no to overspending, this is an invitation to a new way of celebrating
From our Ministry Team
- Last week we conspired to worship fully, to keep the focus of Christmas on Jesus
- This week we want to spend less on ourselves and use the money we save to help others
- This is not a new idea. Choosing to go without something, such as food, has always been a spiritual practice of the church. It is called fasting
- We often associate fasting more with Lent, the season before Easter, but it is just as relevant now in Advent
Activity: Tonight, when you eat dinner, try to calculate how much the meal costs
Bible Readings
Prayer
Thank you for the example of Ruth in following her heart with integrity and returning with Naomi to know God
May our journeys with God and our examples to others reflect that same dedication as we navigate the ups and downs of life
Reflection
In Ruth Chapter 4 we read that Boaz, in marrying Ruth, has been the ‘redeemer’ or ‘go’el’ for Ruth and Naomi – he has delivered / rescued them by ensuring the access to Naomi’s husband’s and son’s estates and giving both Naomi and Ruth a safe and accepted place in Hebrew tradition. When Ruth delivers Obed, son of Boaz, the pathway to the birth of Naomi’s great-great-grandson David and the important genealogy to Jesus is secured. Naomi has an active role in raising Obed and in sharing God’s love with him. The Book of Ruth encourages us to view our day-to-day lives as part of God’s bigger plan for our lives and the world
Some activities to help us Worship Fully (from the website)
- Make a Christmas budget and then stick to it. Don’t compare yourself to others, pray and do what is best for your family
- Research companies that are Fair Trade
- Pray for the people on your Christmas list before purchasing anything. Make spending a conscious decision that engages your heart
- It’s not just about the presents. Notice how much you’re spending on other Christmas activities (going out to eat, new outfits, wrapping paper, decorations, etc.). Find one area where you can cut back this year
- Write down five things you’re thankful for. Take inventory of how blessed you already are
- Set a spending limit as a family. Let everyone have the same amount to spend on each other. You’ll be surprised at how creative your kids will get!
- Donate old and unused clothes, toys, and books to a local organization. Notice how much stuff you actually don’t use or need
…And wisdom from the Tear Fund, on Facebook 26.11.22
Make Time, not food
Bring Joy, not a plate
Be Present, not buy a present
Wrap someone in a hug, not wrap gifts
Give a useful gift, not more stuff
Be Light, rather than seeing the lights