Philippians 4:11
11 … Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content
Reflection: Black Friday Contentment
Written By: Pastor Jesse Caro
Remember the days when stores opened at 3 AM in order to accommodate a raucous and ravenous mob of shoppers violently intent on getting the best deals on the inaugural day of the blessed season of peace, joy and good cheer? A silent night absolutely ruined!
We did this growing up. Mom and Dad were not violent about it, but we would get up, maybe around 5, to get to the Galleria Mall in Birmingham, Alabama. I don’t remember what store it was (J.C. Penny’s?) that would give out Cracker Jack boxes, inside of which there would be coupons for the store. Would we get an additional 20% off of your total purchase, or 50% off of one item? We were shooting for a good coupon, or the simple, “$100” off your purchase. That, of course, is why we boys were drug from bed to participate in this parade… in order to guarantee us the best odds of a good coupon. As much as I lamented it at the time, I am actually very grateful for the memory. All of this effort, I am sure, meant that we got more gifts at Christmas. Kelly and I, early in our marriage, also participated in the madness, waking up early to go to Walmart for the best deals. Again, I am grateful for the memories.
Those days are basically behind us. They have made Black Friday an entire month-long experience, trying to “reduce lines” and make things more “safe!” The tradeoff is that at the beginning of November we start to see “Black Friday” deals at Sam’s. This is not about safety, I’m afraid. This is about sales… and consumerism. We are a consumeristic society, always looking for the latest gadget and newest edition. Consumerism is a god in America, and too often we worship at its feet. The anecdote to the god of consumerism, and the discontentment that fuels his worship, is CONTENTMENT. Can I foster in my own heart a true and genuine contentment for what I have. I am not arguing against gifts, shopping, or the “American way!” I am saying that we can participate without a discontented heart. Can you be a person that can survive the Holiday being truly content in Christ?
Prayer
May we, your people, be content in a culture always wanting more. May our contentment rest in you, and not on the things we accumulate!
