I Wish

Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit. Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other. Galatians 5:24-25 (NIV)

Since this is the kind of life we have chosen, the life of the Spirit, let us make sure that we do not just hold it as an idea in our heads or a sentiment in our hearts, but work out its implications in every detail of our lives. That means we will not compare ourselves with each other as if one of us were better and another worse. We have far more interesting things to do with our lives. Each of us is an original. Galatians 5:24-25 (The Message)

During these times of quarantine, many of us have had more hours than usual to fill.  I hate to admit it, but I spent too much time watching a Netflix series called “Selling Sunset.”  It’s all about real estate salespeople in the Hollywood area.  The homes they’re selling range from $3 million to $40 million.  It would be easy to watch the series and find yourself wishing that you could have a house like that.  There was an article in the Lincoln Journal Star recently about a house in this area that is for sale for $3.5 million.  Again, some people probably look at that and wish they could afford that house, which has a basketball court and a stage for musical performances. 

We’ve all probably found ourselves at one time or another saying, “Wouldn’t it be nice if [fill in the blank--I had a new car, or a new house, or money to travel.]” It’s easy in our commercial culture to get caught up in wanting something because our friends have it. Many people feel the need to buy the latest gadget, like a new smartphone, or fashions with a designer logo, like Ralph Lauren. And we may enjoy showing off those items to our friends.

But the scripture tells us not to become conceited or to envy others. If we give it some thought, a majority of us would realize we have everything we truly need. Each of us is an original.  God has provided for us, and yet we often want more. Wouldn’t it be nice if, instead of wishing for something more, we gave thanks for all we have? 

Prayer: Dear God, You have provided for us and satisfied all our needs. Forgive us for frequently wishing for more. Help us to make our wish to be more like you. Amen.

Robin Hadfield