If there was ever a practice that flies counter to our current culture, then it is simplicity. In the world in which we find ourselves, we often define the “good life” by how full, busy and complicated our lives are.
Simplicity is a word rich in meaning. Simplicity is a lifestyle. It is also a spiritual discipline. In her book, Spiritual Disciplines Handbook, Adele Ahlberg Calhoun writes, “Simplicity cultivates the great art of letting go. Simplicity aims at loosening inordinate attachment to owning and having. Simplicity brings freedom and with it generosity” (p 74). She also states that the desire behind the practice of Simplicity is “to uncomplicate and untangle my life so I can focus on what really matters.” Beautifully said.
Each year as part of NieuCommunities South Africa we try to live in the spirit of Simplicity. A couple of years ago, one of our staff members challenged our staff and apprentices to live for a month on half of our “disposable” income. That means once we have paid all our bills for the month we try to live on half of what is left over. So, for us our disposable income included all money spent on food, entertainment, petrol, school, etc.
Of course, Simplicity month is not only about money. As a matter of fact, it isn't primarily about money. It is about seeking first the kingdom of God and living in a way that is in sync with His kingdom. Therefore, we take time to examine our schedules, our relationships, our desires and addictions. I also make it a priority each year to limit the amount of time each week that I check the exchange rate and our financial giving report. These are areas where God is calling me to deepen my trust in Him.
We have done this for a couple of years now and I am amazed at what we can save in one month's time if we truly scrutinize how we are spending our money. Of course, the announcement of Simplicity month is usually met by groans too deep for words by our children, but by the end of the month I'm amazed at how well we've all adapted. We are more conscious of how much water we use, how many lights are on, or if we truly need to make a trip in the car or not.
The practice of simplicity is changing the way our family sees and engages the world around us. For some years now when Kyle and Zoe pray before a meal, they will always remember those who live on the streets and pray for their needs. When we, as a community, took part of the Simplicity money and bought blankets and bread for the homeless in our area, Kyle and Zoe pleaded to go along. They wanted to be a part of caring for others. They wanted to be a part of bringing God's kingdom in a tangible way to real people with real needs. That is the spirit of Simplicity.
“Simplicity creates margin and spaces and openness in our lives. It honors the resources of our small planet. It offers us the leisure of tasting the present moment.” - Adele Ahlberg Calhoun
