​Moving Past Vanity

If I remember correctly, my plan to convince my wife went something like this: “I can absolutely justify borrowing the money. That device will meet all my future needs. Just think, all the parts are individually replaceable. I know it’s big, but it’s also extremely fast for a 1985 model.”

Unfortunately, even the best computer ever made was never updated as I had planned. Five years later and every five years thereafter, we purchased a new laptop that outpaced, outlasted and surpassed even what I thought was the most impressive of all systems at the time.

Most of us can substitute some material possession in this story that over time becomes less appealing. We buy the next ‘one thing’ we believe will provide the answer, but it does not. Whether bigger, faster, newer, or for some other reason, we are continually seeking more. A reflection on Ecclesiastes might help us find what we really need.

“Vanity of vanities! All things are vanity.” The book begins and ends with these powerful words. The phrase itself conjures images of the superficial, the meaningless, or futile. The author leaves little to the imagination.

There’s nothing wrong with liking our belongings or appreciating something new. Even so, our material possessions cannot take the place of our call towards greater holiness. We do, however, need a reminder from time to time. Fortunately, there are some strategies we can implement to anchor our focus beyond vanity. Consider the following as lifestyle opportunities:
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• Dedicate time for prayer. Begin and end your day in silence and in prayer. Make time throughout the day for what I call the five-second prayers of gratitude, awareness and intercession.
• Perform hidden acts of charity only seen by God. This builds intimacy with Him and cultivates in us appreciation for his infinite love.
• Nurture a culture of love for Christ in others. Love the Lord and seek ways to see Him in others.
• Practice simplicity of heart. Look to Jesus and learn his will for your life. Share with others, possessions that exceed the absolute necessities.
• Adopt a philosophy of stewardship. Share your time and talents with others. Volunteer to serve the vulnerable or poor among us. Most importantly, humbly recognize and share the treasure that is you as a child of God created in his image and likeness.
• Define your own lifestyle opportunity. The only rule to live by is to place Jesus as your example and teacher.

Our relationship with God is the antidote to vanity. A complete investment in the Lord does not weaken over time. Ours is to choose well and know that even the smallest of steps can make an enormous difference.
Endless Blessings,
Deacon Luc and Diana Papillon 

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