by Geoffrey Schmitt

Created on: November 02, 2009

In 1983, my wife and I had the great privilege and opportunity to take a trip to the Holy Land. During that 14 day adventure, we spent three complete days in Jerusalem. Of those three days, we spent about three hours in the old city. It was a busy day in the markets with lots of people jostling about. We were a relatively large group of tourist/pilgrims. As I was head and shoulders taller than the rest of our group, our tour organizer put me in the front of the line as we walked through the bazaar. As we passed the various stalls, the shop keepers tried their very best to get our attention, so that we might stop and shop. One enterprising man called out as I approached, 90% discount for your group, 10% commission for your guide! If you believe that, I've got a bridge I'd like to sell.

Exaggerating to make a point has always been a common place practice in Middle Eastern society. When Jesus talks about camels and needles, he is exaggerating just as he is when he is talking about plucking out your eye or cutting off your hand. Please don't go and do either.

None the less, he means what he says. Wealth is a hindrance and not a help in gaining heaven. It was as radical an idea then as it is today. If you are a believer in the prosperity gospel and a fan of Christian conspicuous consumption, you have missed the boat on your way to an expensive cruise. Don't jump to conclusions. I like cruises; I've been on four. On the other hand, the Rev. Morton Kelsey says, God sees the world from the bottom up. Riches are no obvious sign of God's favor. He loves us all equally, rich or poor.

I have had some small experience in the third world amongst people whose standard of living is much less than mine. They were most hospitable and even eager to share whatever food and property they had. Is it easier for them? Perhaps, but it is also no guarantee. The poor in our country are rich by comparison and some are as miserly as anyone can be. May God save me from family feuds at funerals when there is $1,000 or less inheritance at stake!

The disciples were astonished and the people where outraged to hear this teaching. "Who then can be saved?" they wondered. Jesus replies, "All things are possible with God". We are not all called to sell all we have and give to the poor. However, it is helpful to have a stewardship frame of mind. All we have belongs to God. He has entrusted some into our care. We are good stewards if we are ready to part with it for His Kingdom's sake.

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