T-h-i-n-g-s

I splurged this week and bought three books that were not from the thrift store. Crazy Love by Francis Chan, The Three Muskateers and the Karamozov brothers. Brain food for the far near future. I splurge on some little things in life I suppose: a cup of coffee from my favorite coffee shop, a pack of mentos or FIVE gum, a good book from the thrift store. Little things in life that I don't need by any means but add a brighter color to my day. Over the last couple of months I have been blown away at God's provision, whether through work or through the generosity of others, I have been amazed to see Him bless in the manner that He has chosen to. With blessing comes the responsibility of being a blessing to others and being a good steward with what He has given, whether it be resources or time or your gifts and talents. I did not make it to church today because public transportation turned faulty at the last minute and prevented me from going. I came home in a dissapointed huff and decided I would listen to a sermon online. I researched some by Francis Chan and one popped up called "Lukewarm and Lovin' It". Talk about conviction 101. By simply being born in America, we are richer than most of the people in the world. I am a recent college graduate who is "poor" compared to many of the people around me in Chicago. Poor in what? I have work that pays the rent, gives me a bit of a cushion for leisure, and allows me to eat as much as I want. Am I lacking in anything? Materially, no, I daresay I am not. I have been so convicted lately about possessions, about what I own and what I am working towards. In the end, all of these physcial, material things that we acquire here on this earth will pass away. I long to build up my treasure in heaven although I know I have not done a good job of doing that as of late. I desire to throw off the wants of comfort and security and to continually walk in faith before my God, walking as He guides my steps and leads me to where He would go. There are times when life is full of surprises and unexpected bends in the road, but I desire to embrace them instead of run from them. What am I afraid of anyway? What fear holds me back? May I become unhinged and abandon my caution when it comes to the worship of my God. A process but I know it can come. All in due time =)