Sunday, November 22, 1998
Sunday, November 22, 1998
Those who are unspiritual do not receive the gifts of God's Spirit. (1
Corinthians 2:14
NRSV)
When West German industrialist Friedrich Flick died, he left a personal fortune estimated at 1.5
billion dollars, a business empire that embraced all or part of some 300 firms and a reputation as
perhaps the crustiest, craftiest magnate ever to operate on the German business scene. Flick was
dedicated wholly to his work (he buried his wife at 3 p.m. one day in 1966 and was back at his
desk two hours later).
At his death, the Flick empire generated annual sales in excess of $3 billion. But for all his
enormous power and wealth, the old man had one very human shortcoming: he could not control
his family. A Flick family fight over the elder Flick's empire had employees, bankers and
politicians alike shuddering over the eventual impact it might have on the West Germany
economy. As one observer put it: "Flick hit home runs at the office, but he struck out at home!"
Many people are hitting home runs at the office and the health club and striking out at
home--looking after the outer person and neglecting the spiritual life within. I hope each one of us
won't let that happen to us or our families.
Prayer: Loving God, guide me as I work at being spiritually rich with your love. Amen.
Ronald Newhouse, Texas, USA