The Zero Significance of a Big House and Fancy Car

A young minister expressed his view to me recently that the make of a man's car and size of his house identify his significance. Never mind that Jesus apparently did not own a home, walked mostly every place he traveled, and only rarely rode a donkey - and that being borrowed.

But we hold to the concept that success is realized in personal health, begins spiritually through relationship to Christ, and is manifest in usefulness to others - which means it is not identified by things superficial.

Carole and I probably could have most of the things that to my young minister friend would represent status and significance (Been there, done that!), although we would also need to go back into debt for some of it (You know, "the American way!"). Redemptive service to others, however, calls us to live in a small townhouse (1200 square feet) and to maintain high mileage older cars ('86, '93, and '96). We have found more joy in redemptive service to others, even in a small way, than living out any other experience.

"Seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness and all the things you need will be added unto you." - Matthew 6:33