Christian Reflection and Prayer

Psalm 49:16-17

16 Do not be overawed when others grow rich,
    when the splendor of their houses increases;
17 for they will take nothing with them when they die,
    their splendor will not descend with them. (NIV)

There is a powerful story told about a member of the
famous wealthy Rothschild family. Someone asked
him, “Exactly how much wealth do you have?” In
response, Lord Rothschild answered, “Let me show
you.” He led the man to a room and showed him
many documents. They were receipts from charities
that he had supported. “These,” said Lord Rothschild,
“are my only true possessions. Only the money that
I have given away will accompany me to the grave.”

In the end, all possessions are meaningless; only our
good deeds will be with us forever. So let us convert
our wealth into charity and use our possessions to do
kindness. Then we will have something of true value
that will be with us forever.

With prayers for shalom, peace,
Rabbi Yechiel Eckstein

(excerpts taken from Holy Land Moments)