Beware of Stuff!

 I have been alive a long time. Over these 70 years I have collected a huge amount of "stuff." The stuff consists of things that Chris and I have bought and things that have been given to us over the years. Each piece had some meaning or usefulness when it was acquired or given, but now that I look at all of it, I realize I need very little of it. I have spent the last 5 months throwing stuff away. Now, it is actually a liability, instead of an asset.

I should have known this all along, because I knew what Jesus said, but I did not fully understand it, I guess. (Luke 12:15) He told the people back then and us to take heed and beware of covetousness, for one's life does not consist in the abundance of the things he possesses. I don't think I was ever really materialistic or covetous. However, I did think that by having the right stuff it would help my life be better. I was wrong. Jesus was right.

Yes, I know we all need certain things that are basic to our life or our profession. We need things to take care of our home and our clothes. However, do we really buy just what we absolutely need, or is there a little covetousness that creeps in? Do we think we need "a better _______?" That is where we get in trouble. Also, when we save everything for a rainy day or when we might need it. The stuff takes over our life instead of helping our life.

Jesus' reminder is very important. We can have a great life without much stuff. Life consists of a good relationship with God. That doesn't take much stuff. Life consists of a good relationship with family and friends. That takes time and communication. It doesn't take much stuff. Life consists of working hard to accomplish God's purpose for us here on this earth. That only takes a little stuff. All in all, we can have a great life with very little stuff, but more of God, people, and service.

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Tomorrow, I intend to read Luke 14-16.