HomeWord - Apr. 16, 2008

A few weeks ago, our family spent the afternoon checking out a new store that specializes in sporting goods and outfitting for things like boating, hunting, hiking and other outdoor activities.  It was the Grand Opening and the store was filled to capacity.  Wonderful aromas of smoke from the grand fireplace mixed with tempting smells from the second floor restaurant.  Spacious ceilings allowed for waterfalls to mix with wading pools filled with various fish, frogs, turtles and ducks.  Natural sounds from the outdoors echoed softly in the background, cushioning the hum of busy shoppers.

It was more than a typical visit to a store.  This was an experience.  After an hour or so, we managed to exit the store free of any purchases, including offers for “free” trips to local family vacation sites.  Walking to the car, we were even met with a promotional box of free donuts from a very popular donut shop.

Then came the hit.  Driving out of the parking lot, five pairs of eyes locked in on a man standing next to an open trunk full of creamy-colored, dreamy-eyed golden retriever puppies.  We actually drove by!  But something in me caved.  Maybe it was the deep brown eyes that seemed to reel me in.  Maybe it was the excited pleading from the three kids in the back.  More than likely it was a side effect of the sugary donuts.  But, whatever the reason, I had my husband turn back, and yes, today we are the owners of a creamy-colored, dreamy-eyed golden retriever puppy named Copper.

It didn’t happen right away, but within 24-hours I had “buyer’s remorse.”  What had I done?  I don’t even like dogs.  We’re allergic to animal dander.  Sure she was free, but she’ll become quite expensive, and she cried all night long!!  I was an absolute wreck!

It may seem odd to share this story in relationship to Scripture, but did you know that God cares about our possessions?  More specifically, He cares about the things that possess us, and Jesus spoke about money and possessions more than just about any other subject.  Some analysts say that nearly 70% of Americans live paycheck to paycheck.  Banks record the average savings account is less than $5,000.  Consumer debt and bankruptcy are at all-time highs. Researcher George Barna reports that giving to churches is near an all-time low.