Exchanging 5 c's for 2 c's

Living on this earth can be a struggle and a challenge. We face different obstacles along the way and sometimes, we feel as if we are being pulled in different directions. On the one hand, we need to make a living to survive. On the other hand, we also need to maintain a good spiritual relationship with God. What do we do? What are we looking for?

Some of us may be tempted in different degrees and at one point or another to pursue the 5c's: Cash, Card, Club, Condominium, Car. We see how others seem to be prospering and enjoying themselves and we may desire to be like these other people. However, in some cases, achieving such wealth and status may take a long time or may not be reachable to some. When faced with such obstacles, some of us may not be patient or content, and we may give in to less savoury methods to attain what we want. The question is this: is it really worth pursuing all these things in the long run? Will we be ever happy or content with what we have?

Jesus reminds us: "Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also" (Matthew 6:19-21).

While we need to survive in this world, let us also take time to ponder what we really want, what really matters, what really makes us happy and content. We are pilgrims in this world, and everything that we own, everything that we value, will one day be lost. We cannot cling on to what we have forever, and we certainly cannot bring these things with us when we die. We are constantly given opportunities by our loving God to be less dependent on the 5c's and embrace 2c's: Christ and the Cross. Embracing the 2c's may not be easy, as we may suffer or be ridiculed by others. People may say that we are crazy or silly, especially as the world seems to offer so much. However, let us not give up, let us persevere, for what we seek is not found in this temporal world. Are you willing to really take up your cross and follow Christ?

"Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up" (Galatians 6:9).

"Do not be afraid of what you are about to suffer. I tell you, the devil will put some of you in prison to test you, and you will suffer persecution for ten days. Be faithful, even to the point of death, and I will give you the crown of life" (Revelation 2:10).

"Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him" (James 1:12).