Minimalist wardrobe experts maintain that the purpose of dressing with less is to simplify life’s choices so there’s more time for self-care and, ultimately, for the care of others. I look in my overstuffed closet of clothes that mostly mean nothing to me (and which, when worn, mostly don’t deliver the inward sparkle I crave), and I think of the time wasted each day looking for something to wear in all of that plenty.
I think of the passage in Colossians that says “…clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience. Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony. And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts…” (3:12, 14-15).
I contemplate that my call this Lenten season is about abandoning my longing and pride for expendable, lifeless objects on hangers. Instead, I long to free and offer myself in ways that endure – caring for my neighbor, working for justice and peace, boldly acting on my faith in Jesus Christ.
This message is excerpted from “How living with less leads to abundance” by Becky Shurson from the March 30, 2017, blog of the women of the ELCA.
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