WATCHWORD:
But to each one of us grace has been given as Christ apportioned it. Ephesians 4:7
The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth. John 1:14
But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me. 2 Corinthians 12:9
Meditation:
You Did Win the Lottery!
Recent news carried the announcement that some unfortunate person in California had won the Powerball lottery, $700 million! I wonder if he/she even knows what that means. The winner did choose to take the cash, and I would do the same, but that left a measly $490 million, with all taxes paid. How sad, how very sad.
How would you like to be in that person’s shoes? Think of the problems they have to deal with. Yes, just think of them. Decisions that have to be made. Old dreams to be resurrected. New vistas to be explored. Think of the happiness in that household. Such dancing, and celebrating, and Cadillacs for all the kids. What? Hallelujah for the lottery? Bless the lottery? Bless lady luck who chooses to smile on us? Apparently because we are such good people…maybe? Why, the joy must be palpable.
Does that sound cynical? Maybe just a little. It’s possible that looking at that situation from my age and stage in life, lets me view it from a little more pragmatic standpoint or possibly from the point of view of what do I worship.? What is dearest to me?
I did try to play that fantasy game and what would I do with that $700 or $490 million? Well, there would be those practical aspects that anyone later in life with that much wealth would consider. We would want to help the younger generation clear a few barriers. Cost of college is going up, buying the first house is expensive, etc. Beyond those practical measures there are any number of charities, but let’s not forget the first fruits. Of course, the tithe comes off the top, ah, but which top? I’ve got to think about that. What would my church do with $70 million? What a ridiculous question. Besides that cuts deeply into my stash! Wait! Who said that?
It does come down to what is important in your life. Where does peace of mind come? Where does knowing where your true home is, fit your priorities? Certain lyrics come to mind:
In the morning, when I rise
In the morning, when I rise, give me Jesus
Give me Jesus
You can have all this world
But give me Jesus
You can have all this world, all that wealth, all that earthly good stuff, just give me Jesus. Think about it. If you have Jesus in your life, you have won the lottery, you know, the one that makes eternal sense. Amen?
Thoughts to Live By:
Hold of your horses, my friends. Put those shoes back on. You did win the lottery! $490 million, right there in your pocket! With that good news, what is your first move? You and I are the same, neither of us are equipped to handle that wealth. So, what is your first move? A financial advisor! I must find an honest one! Hard to find, you say, well take our time. STOP! That is the dark side of your brain speaking to you! Kick the greed and the lust out, and get to the LIGHT side, the right side, the blessed side. Recall what your Lord and Savior told the rich young ruler? Sell it all, give it all to God. There is our starting point, there is our first move. Now all we have to do is win the lottery! Oh, the Joy!
Praying Give Me Jesus:
Heavenly Father, I am so grateful that Jesus is in my life, and that You have given me the Holy Spirit within as a constant presence, knowing You are with me. Whatever temptations come my way, Lord, I know I can surrender those to you. Help me, Lord, to be more compassionate and more understanding of others, so that when I have plenty, and others do not, that I can pass on those gifts that you have given me without another thought of self. Again, Lord, I am so grateful that You are in my life. It has made all the difference. It’s in my Lord’s name that I offer these prayers. Amen.
