“Better is little with the fear of the Lord than great treasure and trouble with it.” Proverbs 15:16

“Keep your lives free from the love of money, and be content with what you have.”  Hebrews 13:5

We can cite many examples of people in the news not satisfied with what they have; constantly driven to acquire more; even to the point of risking prison with dishonest schemes – already wealthy businesspeople, political “servants”, everyday people caught up in ways to get rich.  Quick and easy – why stop? 

Wanting more … I would be happy if only … Growing up on a small farm, my parents were not wealthy.  But we were never hungry, had warm clothes, felt safe and loved in our beds.  BUT … I thought about clothes that weren’t handed down or homemade; store-bought bread that would fit into the toaster; and those cookies you could twist apart and lick the icing.  As an adult I realize the treasure of the love and care of my parents and older siblings.

We find ourselves wanting to be something/someone else.  We are envious of others’ talents – painting, music, woodwork, athleticism, fame – overlooking the gifts we ourselves are blessed with, to use and share.

A happy life is not a contest about how much we acquire, but what we do with what we have been given.  Jesus told stories:  Two people received a gift; one used it, purposefully; the other hid it away, keeping it safe but then, serving no purpose.  A poor widow gave all she had to help others.  “To whom much is given, much will be required.”  (Luke 12:48).  I think I am one with “the much”. 

Gracious God, Forgive our grumbling and wanting.  Help us remember that having work with fair wages is a blessing; to be grateful for food, warm clothes, shelter, and the love that surrounds us; to applaud and affirm the talents of others and gladly use our own for your glory.  Amen 

Verla Olson

 

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