Less Equals More

Bible Reading: Matthew 6:19-21

Lindsey burst through the door. “Mom, I’m back! I got paid for walking Lilly. I have enough! Can we go to the mall before I go to Mrs. Stevens’ to pack up the donations for those flood victims? Please?”

“How about some downtime instead?” said Mom. “You’ve run yourself ragged all summer earning money for those Bangle Brights. How many does a girl need?” Mom raised one eyebrow and looked pointedly at the numerous neon-colored bracelets that flashed and sparkled on Lindsey’s wrists. Each thin bangle fit tightly against another to form thick bands that ran up her forearms.

“But Mom,” Lindsey protested, “you get four in a package, along with a code that unlocks a treasure on the website! They’re worth it. Besides, won’t it be cool if I’m the only girl who has all the sets before school starts?”

Her mom shook her head a little. “Oh, Lindsey, you know cool isn’t determined by stuff,” she said softly. “You belong to Jesus, and He makes you shine brighter than all the Bangle Brights in the world.” She nodded toward the living room. “Why don’t you go rest for a while before heading over to Mrs. Stevens’? We’ll go to the mall another time.”

Lindsey went to the living room and turned on the television. But she didn’t watch it. She started thinking about stuff—all the stuff she had and what it would be like to lose every bit of it overnight.

Later that day, Lindsey peeked into Mrs. Stevens’ garage. She’d brought her new backpack filled with all her school supplies and two new school outfits. She had lots of clothes and could use her backpack from last year, and she’d replace the school supplies with the money she’d earned walking Lilly. The newest bangles could wait. These kids had lost everything in the flood.

Mrs. Stevens thanked her for her donation with a hug, and Lindsey got to work sorting donated items. Some were new, but most were gently used. She opened a box marked “Girls.” It was full of hair accessories and jewelry. She slid half the bangles off each arm and dropped them into the box. She smiled. “I know you’d say this is the cool thing to do, Jesus.” – Charelle Wilson

How About You?

What’s your definition of cool? Do you think having the latest and greatest stuff matters? Jesus said the things found in the world are not important because they won’t last forever. It’s just stuff. What really matters is who you are in Jesus. Ask Him to show you how you can share His love with someone today, and trust Him to make you shine!

Today’s Key Verse:
Hebrews 13:16 But do not forget to do good and to share, for with such sacrifices God is well pleased.

Today’s Key Thought:

Jesus makes you shine