Monday Morning Manna: The Place of Possessions

I went to an estate sale last week. I seldom attend one of these, except this one happened to be in the home of a long-time friend and colleague. I made it OK through the living room, even though I had to see the couch and chairs where my wife and I last visited with this couple, prior to his death. Then I safely navigated the den, kitchen, patio, dining room, bedrooms, even closets, until I found his office. That is where I lost it. There was so much in that room that reminded me of him, things that he treasured, and objects that he had kept. But none of it went with him when he died. I left thinking of my own offices – home and campus – books, file cabinets, pictures, collected stuff from years of global travel and ministry, only meaningful to me. When I am gone, it will all be separated and disbursed. Some will find its way into the possession of folks who will treasure it, other possessions will be discarded. Following my visit, I had two thoughts: (1) Possessions are only bad when they possess you, and (2) “Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth.” (Colossians 3:2). My friend was a perfect example of this balance. Join me this week in enjoying our possessions, while keeping our minds prioritized on things above.

Dr. Dan Crawford, Senior Professor at Southwestern Baptist Seminary, is the WestCoast Baptist Association’s Spiritual Life & Leadership Mentor. Follow Dan on Twitter @DrDanRC and Facebook www.facebook.com/dan.crawford