Do nothing from rivalry or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others. Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus. Philippians 2:3-5
Every time one of those lottery jackpots reaches $200 million, I start to play “What if?” I wonder, “What if I won? How would I spend the money?” The first $80 million is easy. It’s right about then that my wife Pam pops my bubble and reminds me, “Hon, I think if you’re going to win the lottery, first you have to buy a ticket.” I always forget that part.
Many of us spend considerable time dreaming about "what if?" Many of these "what ifs" have to deal with money and what we could do if we had it. “What if we had an unknown, but very rich relative die and leave us a fortune?” “What if an unknown stranger came up to us on the street, gave us a paper bag filled with 100-dollar bills and said, ‘Here this is for you.’”
Most of the time being rich is just wishful thinking. This is why I was shocked to hear about Dr. Manuel Padaroyal. He is the Columbian scientist who developed the first vaccine against malaria, an illness that strikes 300 million people a year and kills 3 million.
Dr. Padaroyal says is he giving the vaccine to the world for free!
There are two ways of evaluating the good doctor. Some think he has lost his marbles, others believe he is an earthly savior. I think it's the latter. He is an earthly reflection of the Christ who gave Himself so we might be forgiven and eternally rich.
Dr. Padaroyal is also an example for all of us. As Christians, in the name of the Savior, we have the ability to cook a meal for someone who just got out of the hospital. We can spend an afternoon babysitting the children of a worn-out mother. There are a million ways we can help others, and you don't have to be a millionaire to do it. All you need to be is a Christian who cares.
From a devotion originally written for "By the Way"
THE PRAYER: Dear Lord, no matter how small my earthly riches, I am rich in heavenly blessings. Help me to share Your love and compassion with those around me. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.
In Christ I remain His servant and yours,
Pastor Ken Klaus
Speaker emeritus of The Lutheran Hour®
Lutheran Hour Ministries
Today's Bible Readings: Exodus 7-8 Matthew 25:1-30
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