A friend of mine just listed a property for sale at nearly $2 million. Over 8,000 square feet with acres of land and a beautiful built-in pool and deck, it’s an impressive home. I looked at the size, the majestic architecture, the circular driveway and entrance with all the upscale accoutrements. I remembered a day when I would have lusted after such opulence. Honestly, this home would not have been big enough for me.
I accumulated some pretty cool stuff. Oceanfront properties, condo in the islands, big expensive cars, traveled to far-off lands, ate at the best restaurants, and stayed at the most luxurious hotels. But….. “For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world and forfeits his soul?” (Mark 8:36)
With time comes perspective.
Those things became my idols. They stole my joy and brought compromise into my life. No more.
I’ve learned to be content with what I have. I no longer look at the luxuries of this world as fulfilling. I more often admit to myself how selfish I was. If only I could liquidate someone else’s stuff and reroute the proceeds for Kingdom use. Then again, God owns it all. He doesn’t need my help to distribute His wealth.
Friends, prioritize Kingdom riches, not earthly ones. This is a short-term mission’s trip on this ball of dirt. Let’s make the best of it in honoring our Creator God, not ourselves.
And that’s the mid-week memo.
Steve
