Matthew 19 records a famous dialogue between Jesus and a rich man. After the guy totally lies about following all of the commandments, Jesus throws him a curve ball. Something he can't get around. "If you want to be perfect, go, sell your possessions and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me." Jesus didn't say this because the outcome would benefit him, but because he knew this would shake this guy to the core. The man came to seek joy but his joy was in the comfort of his cash, and he left Jesus clinically depressed . Ironically the joy he put in his money robbed him of what would bring him true joy. We are in a unique position, where our call for serving Christ overseas means selling our stuff. Easy for those who love Jesus right? Ha. No. You find out how materialistic you are when you have to get rid of the things you love. We are closing in on our move out date, and the things we can't store and can't bring with us needs to go. We are currently the local experts on the art of Craigslist. A hard moment for me was selling my motorcycle Rufio. This guy has been in my life longer than my bride and we've been together through thick and thin. We both have changed a lot over the years, but I think in the end we both turned out ok (I'm no longer begging for food and Rufio is no longer purple). God is teaching me (slowly and forcibly) where true joy is found. Instead of having the same reaction as the rich man I am grateful that I get this opportunity, all while being so intrenched in a society that treasures their things. My reaction is changing from a saddened rich man to the euphoria of the man who found the true joy found in Christ:
“The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field. When a man found it, he hid it again, and then in his joy went and sold all he had and bought that field. “Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant looking for fine pearls. When he found one of great value, he went away and sold everything he had and bought it." PS. if you see Rufio on the street say hi
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I have a few things milling around in my head that I want to share with you, but right at this moment there is something else that I would rather you read. I know I keep posting links
to other blogs but I just couldn't help passing this one along. In fact, I don't think this will be the last time I pass this one around. With no further ado. Ten Things That Your Missionary Will Not Tell YouBy Joe Holman |
AuthorsWe are just a couple of kids from Iowa learning to trust Christ daily and aiming to serve Him though mission aviation. Archives
August 2023
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