Greedy Little Pig

This morning I woke up and went to make a sandwich for lunch. When I grabbed the bread for the sandwich I discovered that the bread was moldy. No big deal, just throw it away. When I went to pull out the lunchmeat and mayo I saw at the bottom drawers of the refrigerator apples and lettuce that were bought several weeks ago that were starting to rot.

One of my good friends, Scott Childress, posted a great blog about his journey after understanding the Gospel and discovering the conviction of consumerism. It has been an interesting year. After engaging in many conversations with my friends, reading books, and watching movies I have felt a deep conviction over the American dream of buying and consuming.

I am six months into my protest from buying new clothes. This last June, I felt a stirring in my soul to go on a strike from buying new clothes for at least a year. After going through my closet, I discovered (And am still discovering) clothes that have tags on them or else have been worn once or twice. The question in my mind arises, "How many pairs of jeans do I need?" or "How many shoes can you wear at one time?"

I confess, I have come very close to buying new clothes several times in the last six months. It is amazing how many sales and great deals I have found since June. I also confess that I have not felt anything at this point that would lead me to feeling free or feeling…anything really. I have been comfortable and haven't felt shame for the clothes I am wearing. They are all really nice clothes that are relatively in good shape.

One thing is for sure though when journeying on the path of Christ, is that as you begin to understand more of the Gospel that is when it changes again and goes deeper. This morning I have discovered this. I feel a conviction for buying groceries and letting them rot. More than buying junk food and more than buying organic; I am beginning to be convicted about waste. I am ashamed that I have bought food that sits in a pantry and rots.

Perhaps the hording of food and clothes is an attitude that is deeply rooted in the disbelief of God to provide for my needs. It disgusts me how far removed I am from my global neighbors who don't have shoes and go without food for days on end while I stockpile more food and more clothes. How can I say that I care about people and I love them when I think so selfishly?

I am concerned as we head into another holiday season that I will forget completely about God. To be sure, songs, prayers, and Scripture readings will all be present; but will Jesus? I tend to think that he won't be as close to me as I stuff my face full of turkey and unwrap presents as I sit cozy in a warm house. He probably will draw close to those who are hungry, cold, and alone for the holidays.