Friday, May 7, 2004
Friday, May 7, 2004
For you know the generous act of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich,
yet for your sakes he became poor, so that by his poverty you might become rich.
(2
Corinthians 8.9
NRSV)
Dr. Robert Cade was employed as a research physician at the University of Florida. In 1965 he did some research on why football players lose so much weight during extended practices and games. That research led Cade to develop a drink designed to replenish the fluids lost during heavy exercise. He named the drink after the nickname of the Florida football team: Gatorade!
In 1989, the Stokley-Van Camp sold more than $400 million worth of Gatorade. Dr. Cade's royalties are substantial, obviously. Yet he still lives in the same house in Gainesville. He uses his money on behalf of others. He has supported Vietnamese boat people, paid the bills of many needy patients, funded research performed by himself and others, and he currently underwrites the education of sixteen medical students.
When asked about his charitable gifts, he replied, "God has blessed me in all kinds of ways--including a big income. In the book of Deuteronomy God tells the Israelites a man should give as he is blessed. I think I am duty bound to do as He suggests."
Have you found God's true riches?
Lord Jesus, thank you for the many blessings you have given to me. I am rich because you live in me. Amen.
