Sunday Thought 77

Do we own our possessions or do they own us? In my life, much to my shame, I think it is a little of both.

There is a story in Matthew chapter 19 where a wealthy young man comes to Jesus and asks what good thing he should do that he could obtain eternal life.  Jesus asks this man if he keeps the commandments, and the young rich man says yes. The young man than presses the issue and tells Jesus that all these things I have kept (commandments), then he asks Jesus, what am I lacking? Jesus tells him to sell all his possessions, give to the poor, and come, follow him. This wealthy young man than turns away grieving.

The young rich man thought that he owned much, but in reality the things he had owned him. They kept him from something more important that he desired.

Do the things that we own keep us from doing something more important that we desire? Let’s try to keep our wealth, our possessions in proper perspective, and not let them control us.