The Beauty of Less

In a world that often celebrates complexity—faster technology, bigger houses, and more accomplishments—it can be easy to forget the power and peace of simplicity. I used to think that simplicity was either lazy or boring. It seemed like something that only the unambitious or uninterested would choose. But over time, I've come to realize that simplicity isn’t just about less. It's about focusing on what truly matters.

Gratitude for Simple Things

I’ve learned that simplicity in life can bring us closer to God. It frees us from the distractions and noise that cloud our hearts and minds. As we simplify our lives, we make room for deeper connections with God, others, and ourselves. For me, embracing simplicity means creating space for gratitude and reflection. When we clear away the clutter—both physical and emotional—we start to see the beauty that was always there.

C.S. Lewis, one of my favorite writers, was a master of simplicity. His work, especially in Mere Christianity, often finds profound meaning in the simplest truths. Lewis had a way of communicating complex ideas in such a straightforward, humble manner that even the most difficult concepts became accessible. I’ve returned to his works multiple times, each time finding new insights, as my own perspective has changed with the passing of seasons in life.

Simplicity in Our Faith

When it comes to our faith, simplicity has a special kind of beauty. The gospel of Jesus Christ is, in many ways, beautifully simple. Jesus didn’t give us a 10-step guide to salvation or a complex manual on how to live a righteous life. Instead, He gave us love—love for God and love for each other. This is the heart of Christianity, the simplicity at its core.

One of the most profound quotes I’ve ever read is from Lewis himself: “The Church exists for nothing else but to draw men into Christ, to make them little Christs. If they are not doing that, all the cathedrals, clergy, missions, sermons, even the Bible itself, are simply a waste of time.” This quote has stayed with me. It reminds me that, at the end of the day, our faith should draw us closer to Christ. All the things we fill our lives with—church programs, Bible studies, even personal ambitions—must ultimately serve to deepen our relationship with Jesus. If they don’t, they’re just noise.

The Gift of Simplicity

In the chaos of daily life, embracing simplicity allows us to find peace. It’s about stripping away the excess and getting to the heart of things. As we do this, we find that there’s more room for gratitude. We begin to recognize and appreciate the small blessings in life that often go unnoticed—like the quiet moments of prayer, a warm cup of coffee, or a deep conversation with a friend.

We live in a culture that constantly tells us we need more. But I’ve found that true joy often comes from having less—not less in the material sense, but less in the sense of distractions, demands, and expectations. When we focus on the basics, we can be truly present in the moment and find contentment in what we have.

A Call to Simplify

I challenge you this week to reflect on areas in your life where simplicity might bring more peace. It could be something as simple as decluttering a space in your home or creating a quiet time each day to connect with God. It could also mean saying "no" to certain commitments that drain your energy and distract you from your purpose.

As we embrace simplicity, let’s also embrace gratitude. Thank God for the things that bring us peace and clarity. Thank Him for the moments of stillness, for the beauty of His creation, and for the quiet whispers of His guidance. Simplicity isn’t about stripping away meaning—it’s about making room for the things that matter most.

Call to Action:

• What is one area of your life where you can embrace more simplicity? Take a moment today to reflect on what really matters and let go of the unnecessary distractions.