Crowds, money, late nights and early mornings, everything
from down comforters to Little People toys to power tools and HD TV’s; O the
joys of Black Friday!!! First I’ll say I’m guilty of participating in these
festivities. However that’s just it, the word GUILTY comes to mind. As I laid
my head on my pillow last night all I felt was guilt…. I spent too much money,
bought things I didn't need. By need I mean that I’ll survive without them. Yes
I saved a truck load of money but I also spent money. It’s on this day of the
year that we get a glimpse of how materialistic and greedy our society is
today.
As I said earlier, I’m not perfect; I also participated in
this shopping extravaganza. Yes I bought for myself and for others. That’s how
we show love in our society. Growing up that’s how I was shown love by buying
items. So will we ever learn a different way of showing love? Will we ever be
able to simply spend time, quality time with each other? Without giving gifts,
spending money, watching TV for endless hours, but simply sitting around the
table enjoying each other’s company over conversations and perhaps the old
fashioned card games. Let’s enjoy a meal together without bitterness and
resentment of who spend the most money and time preparing the meal, without a
rush, without frustration and discontent. I’m talking the whole family
participating, doing their share selflessly.
Yes I’m asking to turn off the football game, put away the
cell phones and invest in the lives of others around you. Maybe even people you
haven’t seen a long time. Also relax, don’t be in a hurry, rest, enjoy the time
with your family and of course the time off from work. I give you permission to
watch a little TV but also don’t forget to spend a little time with the Lord,
dig in His word. Invest in Him, the one who gives life, who provides the job
that puts food on your table. Remember that without Him we are nothing, we wouldn't be here on earth. He gave His Son to suffer and die for our sins (even
the greed we show on Black Friday). If anyone deserves our undivided attention
it’s Him!
Lord, I confess my sins of greed and selfishness. Please
forgive me for not putting you first and getting frustrated about the things
that didn't go my way this holiday. Please help me to change my ways and see
things in your way. Help me to act in obedience to where you’re leading me.
Thank you for your many blessings of a job, place to live and the company of
your people here. Thank you for your word and the unfailing love, mercy and
grace that you continue to show me after the many times I've screwed up! I pray
this in your Holy and Mighty name Amen!
