Chasing Money

I was a hospice volunteer for several years and had the privilege of spending time with patients who were near the end of their lives. We had conversations about many things but, the one comment so many of them made was their regret about chasing money instead of being more involved with their loved ones.

Sadly, society today equates success with money and material possessions. People are judged by their car, their home and their wealth as opposed to the things of life which are really important.  Some of my fondest memories as a child were spent in my grandparent’s home. They had no indoor bathroom, no hot water, no central air or heating system and no car. What they provided was love, guidance, undivided attention, peaceful surroundings and a true  appreciation of  the simpler things of life. It was there that I  learned to recognize the beauty and bounty of nature, the joy of companionship with animals, kindness, a love of God and quality time spent with people who loved me.

The more advanced we become, the faster we run to chase the things of the world and time becomes something we struggle to manage. The more we have, the more we think we need. Busy lives, work stress and money issues drive a wedge in family unity. If you drive through a cemetery, you will never see a headstone which reads, “Wish I had worked more and made more money.”

Luke 12:15 “Then he said, Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed, a man’s life does not consist in the abundance of possessions.”

Matthew 6:19-21 “Do not store up for yourself treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal.But, store up for yourselves treasure in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy and where thieves do not break in and steal. For, where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”

Proverbs 23:4-5 “Don’t wear yourself out trying to get rich. Be wise enough to know when to quit. In the blink of an eye, wealth disappears, for it will sprout wings and fly away like an eagle.”

We all want to enjoy the nice things this world provides and take care of our families but, the simple pleasures of life are important. If chasing more money and possessions is stealing your joy, robbing you of family time and putting a barrier between you and God, maybe it is time to reevaluate where you are headed. Life is short, don’t forget to enjoy the gift God has given you.