Attitude Toward the Physical World

Ever since my son had his third birthday party, his attitude has declined. This attitude shift is partially due to a lack of sleep, but also from the overwhelming sensation of having new toys. Material possessions can change our outlook and attitude on life. God has already told us, “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys, and where thieves do not break in or steal; for where your treasure is, there your heart will be also,” (New American Standard Bible, Matt. 6:19-21). Where we invest our time and energy develops our character and attitude overall in life.

If we allow it, “stuff” can get in the way. Our surroundings make us who we are, and we are the ones to make those decisions. By immersing ourselves in spiritual investments, we can draw closer to our Lord. Our relationship with God cannot be taken from us the way a flat screen television can. It is the invisible that gets us to heaven. Others may look at us like we are different or strange, but only God knows what is written on our hearts. Our hearts are tied to everything we do and that is how we are defined.

Lent gives us the chance to let go of worldly and material possessions to better focus on our purpose. By uniting ourselves with Christ on the cross and making sacrifices, we are pursuing spiritual fulfillment. Mannerisms toward material things will diminish as we draw into our souls with God. The development of our souls will be displayed through our attitude, which will draw others in. And maybe, we can help others to do the same for their relationship with God.