Previous Challenge Entry (Level 4 – Masters)
Topic: Illustrate the meaning of “A Bird in the Hand is Worth Two in the Bush” (without using the actual phrase or literal example). (01/10/08)
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TITLE: Catalogs | Previous Challenge Entry
By Beth Muehlhausen
01/13/08 -
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ADD TO MY FAVORITES
They come unbidden to my home,
To tempt - then lure - my thoughts to roam.
I have no needs, and yet they tease,
“Oh yes you do, buy some of these!”
I try to argue – challenge them –
And yet my arguments seem thin.
“My house is full of stuff-stuff-stuff,
So is that stuff not quite enough?”
They scream at me, “You must need more!
C’mon now, please, buy out the store!”
I tear myself away and look,
Considering each shelf and nook.
Oh my, I own so many things –
Each one much comfort to me brings.
So what’s the tug – why so much pull,
When every corner’s very full?
I want what I can’t have – it’s true!
So what, when tempted, will I do?
I must beware … the plastic’s out –
I am about to charge, no doubt!!
Will I recall the tested rule,
That I might soon become a fool?
My head hangs low; I contemplate.
I love my things; they are first rate.
I do not need new toys or clothes,
And buying means financial woes.
I stop and ponder – should I buy?
Or to my cravings should I die?
The tension builds; I turn to God.
“Lord save me from blowing a wad!”
The truth descends; I have no need!
I want for naught! I’m hooked by greed!
Those catalogs, they trigger lust.
They say, “You can;" I think I must.
But really I’m already blessed,
By what God knows for me is best.
I realize I have been duped –
I have from faith to self-love stooped.
He’s wrapped me in sheer luxury,
With extras past necessity.
I’m blessed by everything and more,
While catalogs – they wage cold war!
So even though things are on sale,
From prideful coveting I bail.
YAHOO for me, I close those books,
I find success - I’m off their hooks!
I sigh, recalling the close call,
Rejoicing that I did not fall.
It’s true the catalogs entice -
They quickly can become my vice.
The lesson’s clear, I know it well –
Since in the past I simply fell.
Temptation starts with just a glance;
And when I look, I take a chance.
I forget about the things I have -
Want more and more, my greed to salve.
But when I stop and quickly pray,
God steps right in and saves the day.
My goal is to in Him abide -
Rest and relax, let Him provide!
I won’t buy more – what sweet release.
Those catalogs can’t send me peace.
.
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