Driving down Pacific Coast Highway on a sunny California morning I’m struck with a mix of emotions. What exactly is everyone reaching for and why? Does it really make sense to pursue the American dream we were all told would bring happiness and fulfillment? Perhaps I’m cynical (just being honest here) but the reality is material possessions won’t bring anyone true happiness and fulfillment in life.
King Solomon, one of the wisest and richest men who ever lived and had everything he could want (riches, women, success, status) wrote the book of Ecclesiastes. It’s striking that Solomon wrote towards the end of his life that “all is vanity” (Ecclesiastes 1) and the idea of pursuing riches is meaningless. Solomon said “I have seen the works that are done under the sun and indeed all is vanity and grasping for the wind” (Ecclesiastes 1:14).
I’ve searched the Scriptures, specifically the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John about what Jesus has to say about materialism and money. And did you know Jesus spoke more about money than heaven and hell combined? I think there was a purpose behind this. Jesus said in the book of Matthew “whoever finds his life will lose it, and he who loses his life for my sake will find it.” (Matthew 10:39)
I’m about to venture out to Asia for 11 months going to 11 different countries. I honestly can’t wait to meet people who have absolutely nothing in life but have more joy and happiness than some people I’ve met or know in American who have anything they could ever want (boats, motorcycles, cars, houses, success).
I strongly believe in order to successfully minister to the ‘least of these’ I need to experience their lifestyle of simplicity. The transition won’t be easy but this experience is something I desperately want. There is a whole world out there waiting to hear the good news of Jesus Christ.
Lord, here I am, send me!!
