Chaplain's Message

February 2023

Philippians 4:12-13 says, "I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength" (NIV). 

In my global travels, I've seen some over-the-top, beautiful homes, but the owners are often never around to enjoy them.  It seems they're always at work, making money to pay those massive mortgages. It's easy to become overwhelmed with the desire to acquire. This desire pushes you to buy something your really can't afford, like a mortgage that's over your head. Then you get overextended financially, and then you have to constantly hustle to make ends meet. 

Soon, you're emotionally and physically exhausted, and your relationships start to  deteriorate. Then you don't even have a purpose for that fancy home. 

The Bible says in Ecclesiastes 4:6, "It is better to have only a little, with peace of mind, than be busy all the time with both hands, trying to catch the wind" (GNT). 

The greatest things in life aren't things. And the greatest thing in our bluegrass world really isn't the music. In America it's considered a tragedy to "die penniless."  But there's no better time to go! If you were out of here the moment you spent your last cent, I'd call that wise, not foolish. 

Nobody ever asks for things in the final moments of life. They always ask for people, because eventually everyone learns that life is all about relationships. Why not learn that sooner?  It sure would relieve a lot of stress. 

Life is not about achievements, accomplishments, or acquiring more things. Life is about relationships. And so are the connections we make in the world of bluegrass. 

We're better together!

deanograham3@gmail.com 
Bishop Deano Graham, D.D. 
deanograham.com 
globallifealliance.com 
iamlifechurch.com