This Christian Life

Empty and Aching But I Don’t Know Why

The other day I had a conversation with a guy around the same place in life who is a lot different than me, but also a lot the same. He and I are different because he’s got more money than I do—a lot more. But our conversation wasn’t really about money. It was about something much deeper than that.

Even though we are both in much different positions of financial status, we both agreed that we are in the same place spiritually. He talked about how he has been blessed with a lot of money, how he and his family live in a home that is probably too much for what they need, but that he has never lived for his money or home. He genuinely portrays a humble spirit.

His family gives away money to those in need, gives time and energy to help those around them, and graciously gives resources wherever they can. Their hearts are seemingly in the right place in every possible way.

After he told me all about how his family gives and gives, the next sentance out of his mouth was, “But we just feel like something is missing.” As he was saying that, I was uttering the very same words quietly along with him. He and I may have different circumstances in life, but we share the same soul.

What is going on? We’ve been placed in such as time and place as this where we’ve been given so much that even when we give it away—give so much away—we feel empty with an ache that fills us. It haunts us.

How does one find the balance of seeking first the kingdom of God in a luxurious and plush society?