Consumers or Contributors?

The trillion dollar marketing industry tells us to be consumers.  Consumption is our way of life, be it shopping, eating, or relationships.  In fact I would state that it is seldom that we make a decision not based on being a consumer.  How do I know?  The fundamental question we all seem to ask is how will this benefit me? If there is no perceived personal utility, then we don't want it.  I would not much care if this was limited to stuff, although there is plenty to consider in this realm.  No, what concerns me is that this mindset permeates our relationships.  Our marriages, friendships, communities, church membership, even family; they all are seriously undermined by consumers.

The Bible tells us to be contributors. Re-read Genesis 12.  Salt and light.  Servant.  Not what do I get, but what do I give.  How can I serve? Think for a moment how thinking like a contributor would transform your key relationships.