Day 1: The Challenge of Wealth
Wealth, while not inherently wrong, can become a significant obstacle to spiritual growth. Jesus uses the metaphor of a camel passing through the eye of a needle to illustrate the difficulty a rich person faces in entering the kingdom of God. This vivid imagery challenges us to examine how our possessions might hinder our relationship with God. The key is not to view wealth as evil but to recognize its potential to distract from the true good life that God offers. Jesus invites us to consider the impossibility of overcoming this challenge without divine intervention, reminding us that with God, all things are possible. [30:10]
“Wherever your treasure is, there the desires of your heart will also be.” (Matthew 6:21, NLT)
Reflection: What possessions or aspects of wealth in your life might be hindering your spiritual growth, and how can you seek God's help to overcome these barriers today?
This week's exercise is to identify something we own that we don’t need and either give it away or sell it and give the money to someone in need – simple. We’re not being asked to sell everything, just something.
This may be really hard and feel excruciating initially and that’s okay - dare I say good. It’s cutting away our emotional attachment to things. But on the other end is freedom.
The reach exercise for this week is to simplify. Pick an area of your life - your wardrobe, bedroom, living room or garage - go through it thoughtfully and peacefully and declutter it of every extra thing. You can give your extra stuff away to those in need via the Easter Refuge Society (contact Jenny @jennyp@ewr.org.nz) The Salvation Army, Habitat for Humanity, another op shop or give it directly to someone you know.
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