Evidently there are more bargains to be had than those we customarily think of in this gift-giving time of year. In the past week, such high-profile sales have included a governor, preacher or church, celebrities, and others who have dealt their very selves as though they were commodities, on the auction block of materialism and self-gain.
When we look back on what was received in return - possible paid directorships, money, notoriety and publicity, faded memorabilia, or even revenge - it appears that the sellers sold themselves far too cheaply for some fleeting, fragile, and perishing prizes. How much is your honor worth? What value is integrity, character, or one's essential being? That is all that we have at last - when we exit this world and others look upon us a final time. There is another economy, the nature and significance of which, is comprehended by a few who understand that we:
Gain by losing and lose by winning
Save our lives by giving them up and lose our lives by trying to save them
Develop ourselves by denying ourselves
Make a living by what we get, but make a life by what we give!
There's nothing wrong with being successful. There is nothing wrong with money. There is nothing wrong with power. The question is - is it connected to something bigger than you? Is it connected to what God wants you to do? Is it connected to the prayer, not the petition you ask God for? Not the "let's make a deal" prayer but the prayer that is, "Let thy will be done."
Cornel West
What good does it provide to a man if he gains the whole world but parts with his life? What can a man give to buy back his life?
Matthew 16:26
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11 comments:
Thanks Revvy Rev for that message.
"What good does it provide to a man if he gains the whole world but parts with his life? What can a man give to buy back his life?"
Good post. Rev. I thought of this in relation to Sen. John McCain's life. Here was a man who was the victim of a smear campaign against him in 2000 (Some of Karl Rove's people "leaked" to the press that Sen. McCain had a black baby). Yet, in his quest for power, he used some of those same people to smear President-Elect Barack Obama, even questioning his patriotism. Obviously, he lost more than an election.
How do you say it, Rev- at what price the soul?
MacDaddy: Yes, I totally agree. McCain is a good application of the principle.
Very good post Brother!
Jaycee
Great post, came a just the right time.
What a mess - all for the LOVE of money.
Are we living in relation to what is greater than ourselves? This is a great guiding principal for those of faith and for those who don't believe God is. The greater power can be "greater good of society."
Hi Pastor,
This is so true!
There are so many church leaders who are deeply confused. I remember speaking to my (former) Bishop about the deceitful ways that offerings were being asked for...he started naming other high profile ministers who are doing what he is doing.
I told him it was an abomination to God to pressure and guilt people into giving money...and he said "no it isn't!" He was serious.
We must pray for those whose hearts are deceived to understand what God is saying to The Church.
Peace, blessings and DUNAMIS!
Lisa
Good Post Revvy!
I love good soul food all during the week.
A great post and discussion about the materialism and greed that drives so many of our lives. Still SMH@ the governor of Illinois.
Great message. Oh what a wonderful world we'd live in if everyone thought this way.
"Pentecostal Bishop...shared the sanctuary’s wide altar with three gleaming sport utility vehicles..."
I'm not sure this will be a moment the Bishop will look back on with delight.
Somebody please say "Oh my!" or "Oh me!".
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