It has been good to hear some people say that they have really been challenged this year with Advent Conspiracy. To be able to stop and ask, "Do I really need to buy this item?" is a good thing.
The story in Luke 12:16-21 is really very sad, but I believe it shows what happens when we focus more on riches than relationships. Jesus gave an illustration: "A rich man had a fertile farm that produced fine crops. In fact, his barns were full to overflowing. So he said, `I know! I'll tear down my barns and build bigger ones. Then I'll have room enough to store everything. And I'll sit back and say to myself, My friend, you have enough stored away for years to come. Now take it easy! Eat, drink, and be merry!' "But God said to him, `You fool! You will die this very night. Then who will get it all?' "Yes, a person is a fool to store up earthly wealth but not have a rich relationship with God."
I would assume this man had no one because he celebrates his accomplishment of building bigger and better with only himself. There is no one else around to enjoy his success. God calls him a fool for investing more effort in possessions than people. Do you think anyone even attended his funeral?
Have you been a fool this year with buying alot of stuff? We oftentimes believe that "stuff" will bring us (or our loved ones) the security to "take it easy, eat, drink and be merry", but it's only a matter of time before we are restless, discontent, hungry, thirsty and dissatified again. “God’s answer to the world’s problems has never been material things.” He didn’t give us more stuff. He gave us Himself. This is relational giving. Yes, it cost God ALOT, but not in monetary terms. God gave in the utmost way - setting aside His glory and becoming a human being.
Reject the assumption that the more expensive the gift or quantity, the greater the love. There is no greater love than to lay down your life for your friends and family. This involves being creative this year with your gift giving. Make that phone call. Send that card. Spend less money, but give more presence.
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