April 8, 2009
by Melissa Ramirez Cooper

With the economic crisis it's a good time for people to reassess their lifestyles and assets, according to Keith Mundy, assistant director for stewardship, Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA). Mundy said economic downturns create anxiety and many people feel like they are alone. Some move from a feeling of contentment to wondering if there is enough, which can initiate a downward cycle of scarcity thinking.

To help people understand they are not alone in this time of recession and to recognize God's abundance, the ELCA has produced "Make It Simple," a two-disc DVD resource that explores living more simply while offering an opportunity for people to learn to "live generously." It includes downloadable stewardship materials and nine video segments that highlight the personal stories of Lutherans. Mundy said for people "looking to experience the joy of generosity, this resource provides three events and three approaches to share." Each approach includes an introduction, leadership roles, calendar, sample materials and suggestions for using the video. There are specific materials for children and youth. Make It Simple is available through Augsburg Fortress, Minneapolis, the publishing ministry of the ELCA, and the ELCA Web site.

"The resource can be especially helpful in these times as people face difficult decisions about career changes and managing their finances," Mundy said. "The resource is designed to help people assess their wants and needs, reducing clutter and complexity in daily life," he said. "It's about asking questions like, ‘Do we need that extra television, computer or car? How can we reduce our travel or time shopping?' By discovering what enough is, we discover God's abundance and the opportunity to share with others through our generosity."

ELCA News Service