“Shouldn’t I Want to Switch Places?” by Jennifer Ginn

From Picasa

From L to R: Jennifer Ginn, Pastor Vincent Nyathi, & Cheryl Case

Our first week in Africa has been amazing, convicting, and powerful.  On Thursday, we went in small groups and delivered food to GoGos (grannies) and others in need.  The last place we visited was President’s home.  (President is his name.)  I say “home” instead of “house” because it was a one room shanty, no bigger than a walk-in closet.  But inside of that tiny place was more Christian joy than I think my heart has ever felt.  First, President read Scripture to us and then spoke about the importance of prayer.  His smile was so big and his joy was so complete that it was contagious.  At the end, we sang an African praise song.  We had only 11-12 people, but the sound of our combined voices was so rich and full.  Although he and his wife have so very little, their joy in the Lord knows no limit.  I walked away thinking, “Shouldn’t I want to switch places with him?”  It seems I should want that joy, that complete faithfulness in God’s promises, instead of all the material things of this world.  What will all my stuff get me in eternity? 

“Do not store up for yourselves treasures on Earth…But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven.”  -Matthew 6:19-20

I realize I spend so much time storing up earthly treasures, while President is storing up heavenly treasures.  He has almost nothing.  I have so much more than I need.  Who is richer?