These old college friends we've just visited in their palatial home. ..Their walls are full of trophies from golf and tennis matches, souvenirs from travel. ..They belong to the best clubs. Every son and daughter has a car and a couple of horses and goes to the finest schools. They're wonderful people, Lord, and they've climbed the ladder of success so fast it makes the head swim (especially when you're looking up from a lower rung).
It's hard not to feel discontent with our own progress. Hard not to be filled with envy.
Rid me, please rid me of these unworthy emotions. Strip me of this too handy, deceptive materialistic measure. Give me a gauge for true growth, God-growth of the mind and spirit. And remind me its only accuracy and value is when I use it on myself.
Looking back, am I a better person than I was a few years ago? Have I outgrown intolerance ? How many plaques and cups could I claim for faults overcome ? How far have I traveled in patience, how much have I gained in compassion? And what have I learned? About books and art and music and politics and people? About myself and the world around me? How much do I know?
I don't want to be self-righteous or unrealistic about this, Lord. Surely it's natural and right to want more for ourselves and our children. To set economic goals. But don't let me be so dazzled by the outward symbols of success that I lose sight of the inner achievements.
And one important achievement, right now, will be to rejoice in our friend's success. To love them and ask you to bless them.
Thank you for their progress, Lord. And for Our own.