“If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will find it. For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world and forfeits his soul? Or what shall a man give in return for his soul? - Matthew 16:24-26 (ESV)
David Norman wrote recently an article titled, "Putting the American Dream to Death". It's about the church's pre-occupation with the American Dream. A friend of mine refers to the problem as the "suburban church". This all reminds me of the beginning of my disenchantment with the American material Dream, which in turn reminds me of Dennis McDaniel's book, Lost in the American Dream. Read Norman's post by clicking here >>
As much as I despise it, I still get lured into the trappings of the world and its material pursuits. Consumption with relaxation, indulgence, luxury and entertainment could easily eat up most of my time. Certainly, I have it easy compared to many in the world. I also recognize that I have given up much of my worldly ways for Christ' sake. The problem is, that's not what the text says.
Christ didn't call me to give up part of my life for His. He did not give just an arm or a finger for me. He gave it all. He lived a perfect life without ever owning a home. He lived in my place with no place to rest his head. I get cranky, when I'm a little sleep deprived.
The words of Christ ring loud in my mind, "What good is it for a man to gain the whole world, yet forfeit his soul?". "Whoever wants to gain his life, must lose it for my sake."
Has the American Dream sucked the life out of you too?
Know the Blessing: Surrender it all to Jesus!
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