Comments on: Responding to a comment from a reader

By: Michael Janzen

Michael Janzen — Fri, 30 Jul 2010 16:38:11 +0000

Thanks Sean.

By: SeanGB

SeanGB — Fri, 30 Jul 2010 14:33:00 +0000

Jesus lived in radical poverty–he was homeless and had no family–and I think what you’re proposing is a whole lot closer to what he calls us to than having a house and two car payments. Detachment from posessions is a major element of spiritual growth, and I’m realizing I can’t be detached from stuff when I keep aquiring it. Looking at our family life, I’m also seeing how much time, energy, and money we’ve poured into trying to maintain a suburban lifestyle, and I think we can do better.

I’ve become very interested in sustainable living, both out of concern for the poor (overconsumption on my part means fewer resources for others, no matter how you look at it) and a desire to live a simpler, more meaningful life–and one that’s more in line with my values as a Catholic. Thanks for your thoughtfulness in challenging us to take a hard look at the way we live, whether it’s in line with what Jesus calls us to–and whether it’s really making us happy.

By: Noname

Noname — Fri, 29 Jan 2010 13:45:53 +0000

Michael,

I agree with you and not the commenter. I think they are using the word of God for their own purposes and not in light of what the scriptures truly meant. I find it very satisfying to live in a small space. In one case Jesus said he didn’t even have a place to live! He was more concerned about taking care of others also the scripture came to mind in Col. 3:2 Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth.” God does provide us with all that we need (and more), but that doesn’t mean all that is necessary to lead a wholesome Christian life.

By: Deena Larsen

Deena Larsen — Sun, 27 Dec 2009 04:27:22 +0000

You could ask him to mediate on the vows of poverty, obedience and chastity… or read “The Little Flowers” of Saint Clare, or any of Saint Francis works.

Does he seriously think that all the incredible Christian aesthetics were on the wrong track?

By: Charles

Charles — Sat, 19 Dec 2009 16:47:16 +0000

My personal beliefs have nothing to do with having seen families happy to have a cardboard box to live in.
Small sustainable housing is a better answer than most.
As a Christian I also believe “But if any provide not for his own, and specially for those of his own house, he has denied the faith, and is worse than an infidel.”
God has indeed provided enough materials but we are STILL expected to tend our gardens.
This little plan will work for some not for others, but no one forced me to come look at it and no one is forcing me to build it.
The market is full of people designing “McMansions” and a precious few advocating minimalist housing for those who choose it, want it or NEED it.
Thanks for your work.
Charles

By: Steve W.

Steve W. — Fri, 27 Nov 2009 16:29:16 +0000

Michael,
As a Christian myself, I would advise you to ignore the nay-sayers and follow your heart. I for one am fascinated by the whole “Nine Tiny Feet” concept, and even though it would never be right for me personally, I can see where different people in different circumstances from my own could benefit. Keep working on it!