This morning, I happened on an episode of the Price Is Right.
The game was simple - 1,2,3 - simply pick the most expensive, and you win. The man was clearly very spiritual, and was consistently pointing upwards and thanking the Lord for being where he was - in a position to win. The prizes were a computer, an internet-fridge (really?), and a really cool motorcycle. The man picked the correct most expensive prize, the motorcycle, and won all three prizes. He shouted at the top of his lungs "Thank you JESUS!!", and proceeded to go to each prize and kiss each prize that he just won.
Please don't get me wrong. I'm really glad in this day in age someone gave Jesus glory on national TV. I also was heartened to see him willing to express what's become a minority viewpoint nationwide, on TV. I admire his love for his Lord. But I'm afraid I disagree with the context of the message he gave. And as I have repeatedly mentioned - in my personal opinion - context is so important.
There were many, nationwide, watching the Price Is Right - who are struggling daily with living. Many do not know where their next meal is coming from, or where the money is going to come from to pay their rent. They've done all they can do within their abilities - they are not being what many would accuse them of without knowledge or empathy. They go to bed at night and rise each morning with a level of insecurity about what one day to the next may bring. They may, or may not, claim a relationship with Jesus Christ. Their struggles are real - life has dealt them some seriously low cards.
While watching this episode, though happy to see this man win big - they see his praise to Jesus for his material blessings. And then, the thoughts start.
I thought about the material nature of the objects he was so passionate about winning.
He won a computer - that in ten years will be sorely outdated.
He won a refrigerator - whose internal computer and gadgets will burn out, need replacing - and will cost more money in the end.
He won a motorcycle - which, he'll have to insure, register, learn to drive - all at his expense.
Plus, he's going to have a five thousand dollar tax bill.
Material things come, and material things go. What is here one minute, is gone the next. What starts out so new and shiny has it's destiny in the dust of the earth. A man gains much in this world, but leaves with nothing - every time.
There are reasons why Jesus said to store up treasures in heaven - where rot won't destroy. Jesus knew the value of important things in life - the things which cannot be measured in monetary value. The things like mercy and patience. The things like self-control and temperance. The priceless attributes of love and joy. The rare jewel of meekness. And the invaluable gift of kindness. All of these things cannot be tarnished by rot, or purchased by mammon. These things go on with you - and become an essence of your spirit. These are the treasures that define a person - not the material pleasures that are here today, and gone tomorrow.
Yes, I am happy the man won what he won. I am happy he gave glory to God for his gifts. I enjoy seeing someone win, as much as anyone else. But the fact remains, that in 100 years - a short time - he'll have moved on from this life, the motorcycle won't work, the fridge will be broken, and the computer will be an ancient relic in some antique shop.
The emphasis of Christianity needs to focus on what cannot be seen - the fruits of the Spirit, which are eternal - then what can be seen, and will fade into dust like all of matter is destined to do.
Yup. I agree with your thoughts. Unfortunately corporate christianty puts way too much enphasis on the physical and money as blessings, but the real blessing are Him in us and us in Him, producing His eternal fruits within us. Love, joy, peace, patience, goodness, kindness, gentleness, faithfulness and self control are what is important, and will last forever. Anything physical goes by the wayside.
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