Week 349

Positive post Sunday, November 5, 2023- Week 349. 

You have likely heard the saying from the 80’s, “He who dies with the most toys wins”.  As I have continued to deepen my relationship with our Lord over the years, it has become abundantly clear that toys and material things are merely distractions as we prepare our hearts and souls for the greatest gift our Lord offers all of us, eternity with Him in Heaven.

So, the next time you sit there counting all the toys and material things you have accumulated in your life, or wishing you had more, step back, say a prayer and refocus on counting all the blessings you have had throughout your life and the ones still to come.  Might I humbly suggest that as Christians our saying should be, “Those who die with the most grace win”.  Afterall, isn’t who we are more important than what we have?  There are luxury homes, fancy cars and exotic yachts owned by some of the most dysfunctional, unhappy and lonely people in the world today.  And, conversely some of the most Godly, loving people have very few possessions, yet they are generous beyond their means.  

Regardless of your financial wealth and possessions, live a life of service to our Lord and others, one that puts Love and Forgiveness ahead of all else, and your reward will be far greater than the list of toys you will leave behind.  Learn from those who have gone before us.  I have been to many celebrations of life, and I have never heard a eulogy that focused on all the material things the deceased possessed, not even bikes 😊.  Most eulogies, especially those I have personally given, recognize and appreciate the impact the loved one had on those around them.

Although difficult to do in this busy, complex and challenging world we live in today, we are encouraged to look at how we want to end our lives and live them that way now.  When we love Jesus and put our Faith, Family and Fitness at the forefront of our lives, the material things become less attractive and devalued. 

How are you placing grace ahead of toys in your daily life?

How are you living your life now, in the way you want to be remembered?