I saw this photo from our friend Ben who is taking a post high school year to do ministry in Latin America. As I write I haven't heard the explanation for this picture, but it seems clear that this is the food pantry that Ben has for his food supply. The last picture I saw of him was one in which he looked good, so it must not be too bad...
This past couple of weeks has got me to thinking about all the things I pursue to gratify the senses. Perhaps if you are a resolution maker like I am (I prefer 'goal setter') then you only need to look to your list for 2009 to find something on the "I could do with less" category. Mine includes one for a lessoning of the midsection...about 10 pounds worth.
But even in a spiritual sense, I am becoming more aware that I am oftentimes looking for the 'gratifying' part of being obedient and walking with Christ. I don't do things for Christ to be noticed...but then again it is nice. It kind of goes something like, 'gee, did anybody hear that sermon?'. The question I am pondering as I get alone with God is, "am I satisfied with just Him"...I suspect that honesty is going to be difficult, but a step in the less is more direction. Less need for human applause (or notice) is more, or leads to more of a rightly related son to the Father.
