Years ago, I was introduced to a book called “The Celebration of Discipline” by Richard Foster.  In my early walk of ministry, it opened a door of understanding of how to live in a manner that would honor God and prepare me also for the work He called me to do.  It was later confirmed while I was attending classes to prepare me for the ministry in my denomination.  The instructor was a retired Marine and a pastor.  For many in the session he taught, it sounded like he was adding a hard task on us as only a Marine could do, but for me it was that bright moment of affirmation and confirmation that the journey I had just embarked on was a real thing that mattered in the progress and growth of a brand new minister.  I was delighted for the instructions.

Spiritual Disciplines or Means of Grace is not a new thing; however, I find that many modern Christians are not instructed well on these things and limit their disciplines to Bible Study, prayer, worship and maybe fasting.  I am drawn to all of these, but I don’t know where I would be without the other disciplines of meditation, solitude, service and so many more.

Spring is trying to peep out its head here in coastal South Carolina and one of the tell-tale signs is the lush blooming of azalea bushes everywhere.  I was walking one morning not too long ago and passed by one such lush plant, but instead of the deep hues of pink, magenta or coral this one was full of pure white blooms and as I gazed upon it, the word simplicity popped into my brain.

Few realize that this is also a spiritual discipline, to eliminate the internal and external distractions of life to put all our focus on God.  This is also Lenten season for me, a time of reflection, prayer, confession and seeking God.  My practices are kept a secret between God and me, but I can say that I have moved beyond giving up sweets and chocolates and calling that a fast.  However, Matthew 6 – 7 are some of my go-to texts in this season.  The Sermon on the Mount is Jesus breaking down how to live a Christian life in the simplest of terms and yet sometimes they are also the most shocking for modern minds to receive.  The text above is part of those teachings that remind us about how we live.  The treasures can be so much more than material things and possessions, but it is the relationships, the positions, the status and approvals we seek from this world.  These treasures can cause us to be entangled in so many things that draw us farther from God.  Jesus is reminding us to examine those things and to put our house and our minds in the correct order.  In other words, remove the distractions and put our focus on God.  This is the heart of what the discipline of simplicity is.

As a woman who is actively involved in family, church and community, my life quickly fills up with distractions, tasks, to-do lists etc.  I believe God put the white azalea bush in my line of vision to remind me that sometimes I need to pare back on things, commitments and most of all myself so that I can see Him more clearly, hear His Spirit more concisely and follow Him more closely.  What better season to start than Spring and Lent together.