THE COST OF POSSESSION

For what does it profit a man if he gains the whole world and loses or for forfeits himself? (Luke 9:25).

We seldom take into account what it costs to possess a thing, whether it is a house, a car, a boat, a camper or a set of golf clubs.  What do you mean?  Once I have paid for a thing I can't keep it for free?  I subscribe to a financial journal and in it was an article by Mark Ford called, The Cost of Possession: A New Concept in Financial Planning.  It was a good article about the best use of our money.  One of the reasons I thought it was good was that his thoughts echoed some of my personal thoughts about the best use of my money as a small farmer.  We do not use our money to make ourselves look good, we use it in the way that makes the best sense.  What does it really cost to own a house, a car, a new tractor?  Is that the best way to use your money?

One thought Mr. Ford did not include in his article is that our many possessions can possess us.  For example, when people buy campers then they will have to use them for camping.  Of course, the best time for camping is the week end.  Many times people will miss worship on Sunday because their camper possesses them, and the same is true for motorcycles and golf clubs, etc.  I am not saying these things are wrong to own, but has the cost of possession been considered in the total price?

Our Father's Blessings,
Tom