“[S]aying, ‘Woe, woe, the great city, she who was clothed in fine linen and purple and scarlet, and adorned with gold, precious stones, and pearls; for in one hour such great wealth has been laid waste!’” (Revelation 18:16-17a)
People love to be indulgent. “You deserve this!” In our sinful hearts, we believe we are special. Of course, if everyone was special, we would not be special. You must think to see that for what it is. Why do you lament over baubles and beads? The natives gave Manhattan up for baubles and beads because they did not think about ownership as we do. Perhaps they had a better way of thinking. They were willing to share. We think of things as really belonging to us. But the reality is that all things belong to You.
Lord, when I die, everything I have accumulated will go to others, for we can take nothing with us Pretty bangles and beads are nice to look at, but most of them do not have a functional use. Lord, help me to see through the tantalizing ways of this world which distract me from the call You have given me to be Your child. Help me to take up the cross You have given me that I may follow where You lead.
Lord Jesus, all things necessary having been done by You, my salvation is easy and the load is light. In terms of the old Adam wrestling in the old way, the way is hard and the load is heavy. Free my mind from the trap of this world’s temptation to cling to things and not You. You are the source of life. Guide me and prepare me to live life eternal. In You alone is there hope and a future. Keep me in and with You, Lord Jesus. Amen.
