In Joppa there was a disciple named Tabitha (in Greek her name is Dorcas); she was always doing good and helping the poor. About that time she became sick and died, and her body was washed and placed in an upstairs room. Lydda was near Joppa; so when the disciples heard that Peter was in Lydda, they sent two men to him and urged him, “Please come at once!” Peter went with them, and when he arrived he was taken upstairs to the room. All the widows stood around him, crying and showing him the robes and other clothing that Dorcas had made while she was still with them. Peter sent them all out of the room; then he got down on his knees and prayed. Turning toward the dead woman, he said, “Tabitha, get up.” She opened her eyes, and seeing Peter she sat up. He took her by the hand and helped her to her feet. Then he called for the believers, especially the widows, and presented her to them alive. This became known all over Joppa, and many people believed in the Lord. Acts 9:36-42
“A selfish man is never rich. His day is as long as his neighbor’s, yet he has no leisure except for his own amusements, no sympathy or concern beyond his own perplexities, no strength but to fight his own battles, and no money except for his own need; what haunts his mind at every turn is the dread of having too little for himself.”
William Malcolm MacGregor (1861-1944) in Jesus Christ Son of God as cited by David E. Garland in 2 Corinthians: An Exegetical and Theological Exposition of Holy Scripture (Volume 29) (The New American Commentary) 411.
Imagine the burden people with wealth carry on themselves unnecessarily.
Many rationalize that a good steward stores up treasures for himself so as not to burden others. In so doing, they unnecessarily burden themselves.
Others report that they have no other choice by to store up treasures for themselves forgetting that God is their Provider.
Some say, “But I don’t want my kids to have to take care of me when I am old,” and so appear as selfish, independent parents who create selfish kids.
These are strong statements for sure, but they are true. Humans bring nothing into this world and take nothing out of it. How we use wealth in between shows where we place or misplace our trust.
God’s design for us includes compassionate caring, generous sharing, and interdependent living practiced in community.
And if not having enough brings you dread, let this reality sober you. Those who choose God’s design tend to die surrounded by those they served like Dorcas.
Those who choose the independent route tend to lack joy from the haunting and die alone like the rich fool. While they may have money, it is coupled with dread.
They have no leisure, no sympathy or concern, and no strength because they have chosen the path of scarcity and they reap the consequences.
One thing I love about the GTP board, staff, and regional facilitators. They exhibit radical obedience and rich generosity with all they are and all they have, like Dorcas.
What path will you take? One like Dorcas or like the rich fool? If the question haunts you, ask the Holy Spirit what steps you should take.