Oh. My. Word. I just finished reading a book that resonated perfectly with some things that have been unidentifiably ruminating in my heart, soul and mind for the last I don't know how long. It's written by a woman who, with the support of some amazing-sounding girlfriends and her family, gave up seven specific areas she determined excessive, focusing on one for a month each. Several of the areas she identified are areas that have filled me with tension as well -- spending, possessions, clothes, waste, over-scheduling/stress. Her fast from these things was intentionally extreme and not necessarily meant as long-term changes. But they were meant to break the pattern and inspire real, lasting changes as she and her family pursued God in the open spaces left behind.
Every chapter met me with, "Yes, that's what it is" or "That's the thing I've been trying to put words to." I feel like she is me, four or so years older. She did in this book so many of the things I've been working towards, wondering what to do about or trying to figure out for a year or so. I always thought I was alone; it's nice to know I have company. I want her to be my new best friend.
If anyone is looking for a kindred spirit. If anyone is looking to be challenged to open space for God to speak into your life. If anyone is experiencing tension specifically between the "middle class and up" American way of life, the realities of poverty around the world, and the teachings of Scripture, then I encourage you to read this book. "7" by Jen Hatmaker. Even if it's just to know you're not the only one. I'm already begging Erich to read it. I'm already planning to read it again, more slowly, in the next few weeks; I want to implement some of her ideas or modify them according to my own tensions and promptings of the Spirit.
And if anyone wants to join me in a fast from excess, I'm looking for some brainstorming partners in crime, some accountability, some pilgrims to join me on the yet-to-be defined journey. All I know is that I hope that as I give up, I will be able to hear God speak into that new emptiness. I hope that as I give up, I will be more ready to give generously: of my time, my resources, my hospitality, my love and my Savior.
We did the Compact last year for two months and it was amazing! We gave ourselves a small fund and other than that did not buy anything new. We focuses on what we actually needed vs wanted and tried to buy second hand, hand me downs, use local businesses, shop at coops etc. It was SO refreshing and really made a lasting change in our lives. My impulse shopping is almost non existent even a year later. It was very peaceful to not have the sales and clearance racks pounding at my door and to enjoy life without the material things! Good luck in your journey! I'll need to read that book someday when my kids decide to go to bed earlier!
ReplyDeleteJenn, thanks for sharing your experience. That's exactly what Jen's family did for one month. It's nice to know there are other people out there!
ReplyDeleteBritta, this is my heart lately too! My heart has been unsettled about the reality of the world's poverty v. our Biblical responsibility to help. I feel like I need to get a grip on my time and other resources in order to make room to hear Him speak. I'm definitely going to get this book ASAP! Thank you for sharing!
ReplyDeleteAlicia, it was really helpful and challenging. One thing she only touched on that I need to think through more, is how do we balance enjoying the blessing and gifts we have to enjoy in America without guilt (because they ARE gifts from God and He doesn't ask us to feel guilty about enjoying His gifts, but watching excess so that we are sacrificially and generously giving to the people in much more dire straits. It's a challenge!
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