Less Is Actually More
By Lisa Ash Drackert of Kansas City, MO, USA
Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordan and was led by the Spirit in the wilderness, where for forty days he was tempted by the devil. —Luke 4:1–2 NRSV
When we think about the word less, most of us deem more as its opposite. But that’s not entirely accurate. In so many ways, less can actually give us more. You see, embracing the “culture of less” directly challenges the “culture of scarcity” that we currently inhabit. The culture of scarcity encourages us to hoard our resources because there isn’t enough to go around. The culture of scarcity asks us to glamorize fatigue and overwork. The culture of scarcity tells us the more we buy, the better we feel. The culture of scarcity is a good liar.
You see, more isn’t the opposite of less. Having more is the direct outcome of spending less and giving less of our attention to a culture that bombards us with messages that tell us we aren’t good enough until we own the newest model.
I’ve found time and time again I am happier when I own fewer items. I spend less time cleaning my house and more time outside enjoying God’s green Earth. I spend less money on possessions that I don’t really need and more time buying surprise gifts for friends. I spend less time overworking and more time with my husband. I spend less time thinking about how to amass more money to buy something bigger and better and more time in meditation and prayer, grateful for what I already have. I truly believe that less is more, and I think the Lenten season is the perfect time to practice this. Instead of asking, “What can I give up?” ask yourself, “Where can I spend less in order to have more?”
Prayer Phrase
God, may my deep hope align with your deep vision. Release in me anything that keeps me from freely following your Spirit. Amen.
Invitation to Spiritual Practice
Spiritual Freedom
Breathe deeply as you enter a time of silence. Become gently attentive to what may be restricting you from faithfully responding to the divine invitation in your life. Are there priorities, attachments, tasks, or motivations competing for your response? What does freedom for God look or feel like in you this day?
Today’s Prayer for Peace
Engage in a daily practice of praying for peace in our world. Click here to read today’s prayer and be part of this practice of peace.
