Encouragement

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Seek First God’s Kingdom
© 2005

by

Stephen A. Peterson


My maternal, Native American, grandmother often told her grandchildren memorable thought provoking stories. Grandmother told the story of a very, very wealthy, but a selfish and greedy man who appeared at heaven’s gates. He was greeted by Saint Peter who courteously welcomed him to the beauty and happiness of heaven.

As was his task, Saint Peter escorted him to his eternal residence. As they walked through heaven, they passed beautiful, shiny golden mansions with plush, beautiful green lawns and tall well manicured bushes and trees. As they continued walking, the houses became smaller and smaller and equally less attractive. Finally, Saint Peter and the rich man arrived at a very small, dilapidated, unpainted wooden shack.

“We’re here, sir,” said Saint Peter. “Here’s your heavenly home!”

“What!” shouted the wealthy man. “You’ve got to be kidding! I deserve better! I have influence. I’m a very wealthy man! I protest this! This is terrible! Take me to Jesus! I want to discuss this matter with Jesus Christ! NOW!”

“I’m sorry, sir! There’s nothing I can do,” Saint Peter responded. “I and the rest of the saints did the very best we could do. However, this is the only things you sent the Lord and us to work with.”

Whenever grandmother would tell her grandchildren this parable, she would conclude by stating, “My children the moral of my story is this: That it is not necessary to be wealthy to build a beautiful house either here or in heaven! Remember this always, my children, wherever you go and whatever you do in life!”

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