Contentment in Christ

Did you know that there are different numbering systems for the Ten Commandments used in Christianity? The reason is that Exodus 34:28 says there are Ten Commandments but when they are given in Exodus 20 and repeated in Deuteronomy 5, they are never enumerated. Some Christians follow the numbering system of Origen from the 3rd century in which the Second Commandment is, "You shall not make for yourself a carved image, or any likeness of anything." There is then only one Commandment related to coveting. For us Lutherans, we, along with Roman Catholics, follow St. Augustine's numbering system from the 5th century which includes the prohibition of not making idols with the First Commandment of having no other gods and then has two Commandments dealing with coveting. Even though one can make a great case as to why the numbering system used by those who follow Origen makes sense, having two Commandments dealing with coveting also makes sense. After all, the Bible has plenty of warnings against greed as well as reminders to find satisfaction and contentment in what we have.

This weekend, we'll continue our series titled, "Lord, Teach Us..." with an emphasis on how not to be obsessed with stuff. The key words are "obsessed" and "stuff." In other words, help us not to be so consumed by our desire for things that do not have eternal significance that we lose sight of the one thing needful: Having Christ and with Him the forgiveness of sins, life and salvation.

Let's be honest. In a consumer-driven society, it's easy to think about accumulating things for the here and now to make our life and that of our children "comfortable." In the process, we can lose the whole idea of storing up for ourselves treasures in heaven. Sometimes it comes down to a choice between immediate gratification and achieving a long-term goal. What's the most important thing for you?