Narrative Lectionary Key Verse for Today
“I have learned to be content with whatever I have.”
NL Daily Devotion for Saturday, May 28, 2022
by R. M. Fergus, Clergy Stuff
I was taught that “happiness isn’t getting what you want, but wanting what you have.” There is great wisdom and peace in being content with what is, with understanding the idea of “enough.” I love my small, peaceful life, my minimal possessions, the simplicity of the flow of what is. And I am grateful to God that all my needs are met, that I have enough, and that I am enough.
On the other hand, this sentiment, while lovely, falls far short when it comes to the majority of people in our world. I couldn’t possibly counsel someone living in generational poverty to “be content with what you have.” 38 million people in my country—including 12 million children—can’t be sure of where their next meal is coming from. There are millions of people without stable housing (or housing at all), without basic health care, without the resources they need to live safe, healthy, happy and productive lives. These are not issues to be solved by “being content with what you have.” Or through charity. These are issues of justice, of the basic dignity of all of God’s children. While I can be content with what I have, I can’t be content with this injustice. There is work to be done!
What does the word “enough” mean to me?
