Many vacation travelers take along too much stuff. They pack more shoes, clothes, and gadgets than they will ever need. Their mindset is, "I'd better not forget anything because I can't go home and get it." They would be better off if they asked, "How much can I get along without?" They often end up dragging around heavier-than-necessary suitcases. Some people even purchase so many new items on vacation that they have to leave some of their other stuff behind in the hotel.

We're inclined to accumulate far too many possessions on our journey through life. We're bombarded with ads that urge us to purchase things we "just can't live without." So we buy more and more and more.

The rich man in Jesus' parable (Luke 12:13-21) may have been dreaming about all the good things he could acquire because he had a great crop. He said he would build bigger barns, and he would spend his time eating, drinking, and partying. But God told him, "Fool! This night your soul will be required of you; then whose will those things be which you have provided?" (v.20).

The principle is clear: Be "rich toward God," not rich in things (v.21). Besides, you'll have to leave it all behind when it's time to go Home.  — David C. Egner