Why I Bought a Neon

No this is not a an advertisement for Dodge. Though I have been won over in recent years from "GM only" products. Sorry Grandpa.

We sold our car in December just before leaving for Africa to help with some of the expenses of my four-month sabbatical. Before leaving I was really thinking about the Charger (man are they cool!) or the 300M -- but I just couldn't bring myself to do it after living around poverty for four months. (Not to mention Fleet turns 16 soon - - have you checked out car insurance for 16 year olds?) So after returning I told my friend to give me the cheapest thing on his lot.

Now don't misunderstand me. Not everyone should drive a Neon - and there's nothing wrong with a Charger or a 300M - or even a Lexus for that matter. (We still own a 2005 Durango - for now anyway.) But this brings up an interesting conversation. Should we buy something bigger or more expensive (car, house, anything) simply because we can? I know this will probably make some of you mad - but it might be because you misunderstand me.

Prosperity is good. Riches are from God. Material blessings were intended to be enjoyed. But too many people are way too caught up in impressing others - even if they have to bust the budget. And not enough of us are willing to cut back a little - live more simply (while still living nicely according to the standards of the "majority world") - and give generously to those in need.

The staff recently had this discussion and I'd like to know what you think. How do we remain balanced? How do we say material things are good and intended to be enjoyed while also warning people about the dangers of greed? How do we remain madly in love with God (rather than wealth) and generously give to those in need while also enjoying some of the blessings God has bestowed upon us. We MUST NOT "lord it over" the consciences of our brother or sisters in Christ - - but we should at least challenge each other to think about these matters.

And let me also say that the real issues are values like generosity, humility and wisdom. This cannot be turned into a class warfare debate! I know greedy Neon drivers - - and generous people who happen to drive a Lexus.

Anyone bold enough to share their thoughts?