Does it seem as though people are obsessed with getting stuff. We are living in a time where the general culture seems to be one of “it’s all about me,” or “what’s in it for me,” or “I need more stuff.” Many people I meet through business seem to be this way. But also many church people, Christians, seem to be more focused on themselves than others.
I don’t think this is a recent phenomenon. The Bible records many stories of selfishness and greed. Writing in the Middle Ages, Thomas a Kempis says, “The wise lover regards not so much the gift of Him Who loves as the love of Him Who gives.”
Love is an attitude. That attitude more highly regards the love of a person or of God who gives us a gift than the gift itself. We ought to rejoice that someone thinks enough of us to give us something rather than focus on the gift. Maybe someone you love gives you something that is less than what you expected. Do you pout because you wanted more? Or do you rejoice that they thought of you at all?
This is one part of love that Christians should be displaying. My prayer is that those who have not yet overcome the human emotions of selfishness, greed and hate will eventually be overcome with love for God, the Giver, and for people, His creation.
Tags: Ethics, Love, Relationship, spirit
Faith Venture 
Leave a comment