Abundant Life


Set us free, O God, from the bondage of our sins, and give us the liberty of that abundant life which you have made known to us in your Son our Savior Jesus Christ; who lives and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen. (Fifth Sunday after the Epiphany BCP 216)

Life in God is marked by many different things. Community worship, contemplative prayer, care for others, especially those in need, care of the world and God's creation, are all ways in which we can recognize the life of God in others. Another way we can recognize God's presence in the life of another is by their focus on abundance, instead of scarcity.

Scarcity is a threat in our lives. The fear of scarcity works in very subversive and detrimental ways in our society. We may not even always see it as it happens, but scarcity permeates our needs to save up, whether it is saving things, clothes, food, or money, and not share with others. Having an attitude of abundance allows us to relax and enjoy. Knowing God's abundant life means we are not held captive by the fear that there will not be enough. God always has more than enough, more than enough love, more than enough grace, more than enough community, more than enough food to share.

The gospel stories are full of instances of God sharing abundantly. When I look at my life today the list of abundant gifts God has given me would include grace, love, forgiveness, cat hair, paperwork, words to write and share, wonderful community, and sustaining relationships. What has God shared with you abundantly today?

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