Daily Devotional for August 25, 2022

Shannon and I raise Brahman and Hereford cattle.  They are a big part of our lives.  Because of this, my daughter and grandchildren gave me the greatest Father’s Day gift in the history of Father’s Day gifts.
 
They gave me a Hawaiian shirt covered in Hereford cows.  It is the most awesome shirt in the history of awesome shirts.  I love.  It is my prize possession.
 
Yesterday, as I was thinking about today’s devotional and prize possessions, I decided to ask some of our church staff what was their prized possession.
 
When I asked Melissa, she got dreamy eyed and said, “My engagement ring.” (Way to go Scott!!!)
 
When I asked Pete, he said, “The rifle my grandfather gave me.”
 
When I asked Ellie, she said, “My house.”  I asked, “Really?”.  She said, “It’s the house that Drew and I built together.”
 
This got me thinking.
 
All four prized possessions didn’t have so much to do with the monetary value as they did the sentimental value attaching us to loved ones.
 
This got me thinking.
 
Our culture teaches us possessions are what truly matter.  The more the merrier.
 
What real life teaches us is relationships are what truly matter.
 
This got me thinking.
 
When Jesus tells the rich young ruler to sell his possession and give the money to the poor, he gives this man an invitation to become one of his disciples.  Jesus says, “Then come, follow me.”
 
Scripture says, “When he heard this, he was shocked and went away grieving, for he had many possessions.”  (Mark 10:22)
 
The rich young ruler was more concerned about his possessions than following Jesus.  He missed what life is truly about.
 
Don’t let this happen to you.
 
Cherish, initiate, and grow your relationships.  That’s what makes a meaningful, fulfilled life.  And the most important relationship is with your Father in heaven.
 
Prayer:  Dear Gracious Heavenly God, give me clear vision to see what really matters and what doesn’t.  In Jesus’ name I pray.  Amen.
 
Life is about relationships. 
 
Also, just for the record, I am wearing my Hawaiian/Hereford shirt to church today.  It’s awesome.
 
I pray your day is filled with joy and laughter.
Tom Robbins