Prices Slashed !!! Buy More Stuff!

It happens frequently this time of year. Stores slash their prices to generate much needed funds to carry them through the down time of winter. This year is a bit more dramatic with the downturn in the economy, as prices were slashed weeks earlier than usual. Black Friday (title of the shopping day after Thanksgiving) was actually better than anticipated. Their strategy worked as many were lured into the stores looking for the bargain of a lifetime.

Sadly, this annual event which culminates with Christmas morning celebrations around the nation almost always end with people filled with lots of stuff but little joy. I have been given the privilege of being in many homes and with many families throughout my lifetime. Some have true and lasting joy but many do not. I remember in my own life the emptiness of it all. Lots of stuff......but no peace. Even though the gifts were purchased with loving intent, at a great deal, the end result was and is usually only more of the same, emptiness. Do you remember? Do you know the feelings I am describing? If you are honest with yourself and me, you do!

Why is it that millionaires and street people both suffer saddness & depression? Both can be candidates for suicide??? You would think that the one with the $$$ would find his peace and joy in his stuff. Not true! While STUFF may provide temporary happiness, note the word temporary it does not meet the deepest need of the human heart. There was a song many years ago that had the phrase in it..."Wasted days and wasted nights".... This probably best describes the human struggle to find meaning in life.

True meaning is available and at a cost you will not even believe. Talk about slashing prices....How about FREE! yep, that is what I said....Free! First we must acknowledge that our way isn't working. Admit it, all the stuff we have here in America doesn't buy happiness. Positions, power, public approval, popularity and even plenty of stuff doesn't satisfy your heart nor mine. Give it up and give it to Jesus! HE said " I have come that they may have life and have it more abundantly." Does this describe your life? Abundantly filled with joy and peace. If not, then talk to the ONE who alone can do something about it. HE has paid for it already. Purchased it with HIS own life. Just for me, just for you. So buying more stuff isn't the answer.....HE is! Jesus loves you!