Jogging in 104 degree temps makes you appreciate air conditioning. It got me thinking about how rich even the poorest Americans are compared to 92% of the rest of the world. Not having enough money for cable or a cell phone or a car does not make us poor. That just makes not as well off as someone else. We do not know what being poor is like until we see it up close.I had the honor of doing ministry in the Dominican Republic this year. I saw poverty that I will never forget. We brought food to a single mom living in a 10X10 room with no running water. She had 9 children. They did not know where their next meal was coming from. Again we are richer than 92% of the rest of the world. We are rich. (I recommend reading "Rich Christians in an age of hunger" by Ron Sider)
The words of the Apostle Paul inspired by Christ are true of us all:
"Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment.Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share. In this way they will lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life." 1 Timothy 6:17-19 NIV
Be rich toward God by putting your hope in Him not wealth.
Be rich in good deeds by being generous with your stuff.
In faith hope and love
Scott
