Hand Me Downs

I don't remember where I heard the story, it's one of those stories that I have gathered from years of reading and being in church...

There was a missionary family that came to a church, somewhere in the North West I think, to give their report. They had been on the mission field, some obscure corner of Africa or Asia - I don't remember where. The place is not that important.

The father stood up to introduce his wife and five children and began to speak about what God was doing in the corner of the world to where they had been called. Apparently there was a minor stirr when the father introduced his family, namely in regards to the clothing worn by the family. The clothes were far out of date, out of style, and somewhat jaded in appearance. I remember the impression of that the story teller had regarding the clothes, almost to the effect of - "My God they are soo out of style."

As the father was wrapping up, he specifically thanked this particular church for the clothing that his family was wearing as they had come from this church's missionary bin... You can probably imagine the story teller's complete chagrin.

I rejoice greatly in the Lord that at last you have renewed your concern for me. Indeed, you have been concerned but had no opportunity to show it. I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether livingt in plenty or in want. I can do everything through him [Christ] who gives me strength.
Philippians 4:10-13

For the few in ministry that seem to have been able to use their position to an advantage, possibly beyond what may be appropriate - there are thousands, if not tens of thousands, of those who have chosen full time ministry and are barely scraping by financially. While the story talks about clothing, I believe that it is a mistake to limit the application of the story to "Clothes in the missionary bin."

God seeks a relationship with us wherein He has first priority, first place, the place of honor in our lives in regard to each and every area of life. Whether it be spiritually, emotionally, physically, or financially He wants to be in first place. Be it with our time, our possessions, or our person, God wants us wholly committed to giving Him our Best.

What hand-me downs are you giving to God? With your time? With your conversation? With your family? With your money? With your possessions? With your heart? I believe that is a prayerful conversation worth having, one that I should have more frequently.

One more thought, the missionaries in the story had received hand-me downs from people in the church and were sincerely grateful. How many times are we less than happy with what God has provided for us? In Philippians, Paul spoke about how he had learned to be content in all circumstances.

Does it matter to you if it's hand-me downs or brand new Tommy Hilfiger? Are you happy with Wal-Mart, or does it have to be Macy's and Nordstrom's? Definitely a prayerful conversation I need to have regularly - and not just about clothes.