The word downsize essentially means: to reduce in number or size; to make in a smaller size; to simplify one's life. This is especially painful in the life of the aged, when heart-breaking choices must be made concerning things they’ve always held dear. Nevertheless, some things must go if they’re to move on. Getting rid of assets is a lifelong chore. It doesn’t get easier!
But this is not only true of the elderly, but also in the lives of children, teens, young adults, and those in mid-life. As I said, it’s lifelong. In these various stages of life, we are called upon to “let go” of the toys we cling to so desperately. The Bible refers to it as “stuff.” Many of us have far too much baggage on our journey home. Most of us like addition, in reference to the good in life; but not the subtraction. Ask Job.
Downsizing is a particularly important part of the Christian’s Spiritual life. Getting rid of “spiritual” things can be more agonizing than parting with the material. If we are to “finish our course with joy,” as Paul tells us, we must not even count our lives dear unto ourselves. In that great storm recorded in Acts twenty-seven, the experienced mariners knew what some would deem necessary, had to be cast out.
A lot of us would consider it a wonderful thing to have a money-belt full of gold coins around our waist, that is, until the ship wrecks; then an important decision has to be made.
Let's take time to smell the flowers; they’ll be on top of us soon enough.”
(rds)
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