Matthew 19:23-30

        The eye of the needle, with God all things are possible

       This reading is rich with messages from God.  What comes to mind however is a campaign trail controversy from not too long ago. President Obama had made a comment on personal success in business. Basically, if anyone is successful, they have not done it alone. Whether it's family, employees, government grants or even the infrastructure of this great country that helps us to succeed, no matter what, you did not succeed by yourself.  I have noticed a great many people that seem arrogantly proud at what they have accomplished. They hoard their wealth as if they personally earned every penny of their millions. " I worked hard for every penny I have! "  I've got news for these folks, many, many people work hard and do not succeed.

         I'd have taken an even bigger step than what President Obama said and I would have the scripture read, that nothing is possible without God. While I do not believe that God would intervene to make your business go better, I do believe it is through God's good graces that we are able to accomplish anything. That starts with each breath we take, counts in our family and friends' support, our health, the brain God gave us and on and on. Ultimately, our thanks should go to God for everything. Anything else is arrogance.

         For those who think that is is they that have done it all, the scripture today adds a footnote,

many that are first will be last, and the last first. If you make the choice to put yourself first, you will be last.