READ
REFLECT
What we tell our heart to “value” drives everything. Sting expressed this in his famous song “Every Breath You Take,” saying, “Every move you make, every bond you break, every step you take.” His words emphasized direction in life. It’s why writing down the top 3 values for any company, family, or person is worthwhile. They remind us who we are and our best intentions and fortify us when storms rise.
In his two-paragraph fable, Aesop told us never to let desire exceed gratitude. Healthy desire can lead to new love, bravery, and profound impact. But with gratitude, we can maintain sight of the need to remain faithful and protect the primary blessings God entrusts us with.
Jesus said similarly in Luke, “Watch out and be on guard against all greed, because one’s life is not in the abundance of his possessions.” Then he told them a parable: “A rich man’s land was very productive. He thought to himself, ‘What should I do, since I don’t have anywhere to store my crops? I will do this,’ he said. ‘I’ll tear down my barns and build bigger ones and store all my grain and my goods there. Then I’ll say to myself, you have many goods stored up for many years. Take it easy; eat, drink, and enjoy yourself.”‘
“But God said to him, ‘You fool! This very night your life is demanded of you. And the things you have prepared — whose will they be?’ That’s how it is with the one who stores up treasure for himself and is not rich toward God.”
RESPOND
1. What are your top 3 values?
2. Do your recent actions highlight a desire out of alignment with your faith, family, and what you hold closest?
