Responsibility. Accountability. Stewardship.
As I prepare for the World Race–a year of self-denial, sacrifice, meager living–I find myself spending a lot of money. WR prep costs a lot and some of them are fixed and expected, like medical insurance, vaccinations, support-raising costs (e.g. stamps), etc.
But then there is all the supplies and equipment I’ll need: hiking backpack, tent, sleeping bag and pad, clothes, etc. For equipment and supplies alone I find myself easily spending over $2,500.
I have to ask myself,
“Is this wise? Is this responsible?”
As supporters, you have the opportunity to keep my accountable in this. Even though you are giving to the total overall cost of the trip (over $15,000, which the distribution of that is in an earlier post), I am still paying for all the equipment on my own.
Yet because you are supporting me, I feel a responsibility to be a good steward and to give a good account of the money that I make and my own spending habits. That being said, here are the two views that I see:
1.) Sacrificial living–do with less or without.
Why spend the extra $50 on a higher quality sleeping bag or tent when I could get one that works fine for less? Why buy new clothes when I can just go with the surplus of clothes I already own? If I really am wanting this trip to be about minimalistic and incarnational living, they why should I buy new expensive things to go live with and serve the poor and the needy? Doesn’t that seem a bit hypocritical? After all, I could just use the money I save by buying cheaper stuff to go toward the WR cost or to bless other people.
2.) Investment.
Since this is a year-long commitment, and since I will continue to use this equipment throughout my life (whether for personal enjoyment such as hiking/backpacking for for future ministry trips), I can invest in higher quality stuff that will hold up better and and last longer. For instance, buying a more expensive sleeping bag, but one that is lighter-weight and compacts better yet still keeps me warm when wet (not every bag is like that). Or shirts that are light-weight, quick-drying, don’t hold smell as much, and are good for body temperature regulation. Yeah, maybe it costs more now, but it’ll be worth it.
Perhaps I am not perfect at this, but I want to be open and honest with you, letting you know that this is a consideration on my mind and something I wrestle with in my heart.
I hope to find the right balance between these as I continue to prepare for the World Race and for a life of ministry. After all, my life and my finances are not my own but all belong to God.
