Wednesday, February 12, 2003
Wednesday, February 12, 2003
Praise the LORD! Happy are those who fear the LORD, ho greatly delight in his
commandments.
I worry about those of us who cannot enjoy life unless we have the latest toy, or we are engaging
in the latest fad. Whether it is a sleek sports car or a massage at the neighborhood spa, there
are some people who are desperately seeking happiness through sensual pleasure. There's
nothing wrong with that as long as we recognize that it is an illusion. It is an escape. It is a
substitute for real happiness--the happiness of an experience of the indwelling Christ. There
are many of us who will not be able to enjoy old age much less heaven. Our world is wrapped up
in the pursuit of power, pleasure and possessions. We can only enjoy a sunset if it is in
Acapulco. Exercise has no lure unless we are in the right club or at least have on the right attire.
Even the food we eat must be served with the proper ambience. I'm not saying these things are
sinful. I am saying if you have to have these things to be happy, you are in trouble. Can you enjoy
the simple pleasures of life like David did in today's story or must you have more?
(Psalm 112.1
NRSV)
David and his brother, Michael, were complete opposites. Michael was a successful
businessman, while David took seasonal jobs at dude ranches, parks and resorts. Concerned
for David's welfare, businessman Michael tried to entice David with the so-called "good life." He
would send David photos labeled "My new sound system" or "My new car." The campaign
ended, though, when Michael received a poster from David showing a breathtaking view of
Wyoming's Grand Teton National Park. On the back David had written: "My back yard."
Dear God, help me to have true happiness that comes from your son Jesus Christ. Amen.
