Chapter 11: Money and Happiness

O Lord … in my business I often have opportunities to meet foreigners. Every time if situation permits, I’ll bring up topic about You. Most westerners are Christians though some would tell me out right that they are not religious.

The other day a Taiwanese customer came to visit me. His group is one of the largest conglomerates in his country. His boss is a billionaire. They all work unbelievably hard, and none of them believe in You.

During luncheon together he mentioned that he was often very tired. So was his boss. Besides, though he and his boss were undeniably rich, they were not happy. He felt empty inside he said. However, he marveled that I always had a smile on my face. Certainly I must be richer that they were! I quickly replied, “No, not at all. I’m not even one in a millionth of your wealth. But I’m happy because I have God!” He looked me in the eyes, “God again” I smiled, “Yes, God gives me happiness.” “Though I’m very busy”, I continued, “I’d find time to do things to serve Him. And it gives me great joy and happiness.” “It’s a waste of time!” He declared. I told him that for me, serving God was not a waste of time. I believe in You, and have faith in You. In serving You with all my heart, You will in return take care of my business for me. He then told me coarsely, “I don’t believe in God. Period.”

So, it was period, the end of the conversation about You. Some people are like lotus in the mud (Thai saying). There is nothing we can do about people who worship themselves and money like this. It reminds me of Your teaching, “When anyone hears the message about the kingdom and does not understand it, the evil one comes and snatches away that was sown in his heart …” Matthew 13:18

I’ll keep sewing, my Lord, untiringly. I promise.

“It is good to praise the Lord… to proclaim your love in the morning
and your faithfulness at night….” Psalm 92: 1-2

Amen.

A Child of God