An ad recently appeared in the "Philadelphia Inquirer" that captured the American spirit so embarrassingly that someone must comment! The appeal to purchase a luxury car was so excessive that I am reluctant to identify the product by name.
The banner across the top of the large display ad read, "The savvy approach to INDULGENCE." The print was bold and the following explanation was immediately beneath. "Values have shifted. It is so ‘yesterday’ to flaunt wealth and out-spend others . . . even in the luxury world. Savvy is the new currency. Real status comes from having the inside knowledge." A grinning retired professional football player is leaning on a golf club near the front fender of the promised indulgent luxury. The vehicle comes "completely equipped for only (emphasis mine) $699 per month lease." A small print disclaimer indicated that the discounted terms were for only those of special credit qualifications and other fees would be assessed.
The same issue of the "Inquirer" documented the climbing unemployment rate, the closing of businesses in the area, and items about failing school systems. Are we really aware and sensitive to the huge, rapidly increasing, chasm between the "Haves" and
"Have nots?" How can we justify being silent about economic injustice, disparity between school systems, accessibility to health care, and the emotional damage to those who exist in poverty?
It may be too "preachy" but, the Book still says, "He who mocks the poor shows contempt for their Maker; whoever gloats over disaster will not go unpunished." (Proverbs 17:5) If the ad doesn’t qualify as "mocking" and "gloating," what does? "Disaster" isn’t always measured in wind speeds and feet above a flood stage. The life-long effects of malnutrition and inferior education are also disastrous. Another reading of James and careful perusal of Proverbs is a fitting first step to renewing sensitivity to others. An additional offering designated for the poor is another appropriate measure. Asking the Lord who is moved by the pain of the poor, "How can I best serve those most in need?" will be heard all the way into heaven. And, His answer will undoubtedably change us more than we thought possible.
I am open to discovering a "Savvy approach to SHARING SACRIFICE!"
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