The Money Ledger

            Years ago, it caught my attention when a periodical offered an account of how Godfrey Davies wrote his historical work on the Duke of Wellington. The periodical quoted Davies as saying this, “I found an old account ledger that showed how the Duke spent his money. It was a far better clue to what he thought was really important than the reading of his letters or speeches." 

            I once heard a preacher state, “Show me your checkbook and your [appointment book], and I will show you where your heart is.”

            Maybe that is why Jesus spent so much time talking about money. How we spend the money God bestows upon us reveals how we feel about God.

All Ground Is Level at the Foot of the Cross

            There is a story told, perhaps legend, that relates a remarkable truth:

            The Duke of Wellington was once taking Communion along with the other members of his church. Being an Anglican, he and all other members would approach the communion table and kneel down to receive the sacrament.

            It so happened that a very poor man walked up the opposite aisle and, reaching the communion table, knelt down close by the side of the Duke.            

            Someone came and touched the poor man on the shoulder. He whispered to him to move away, or to rise and wait until the Duke could receive the bread and the wine.

            Overhearing the conversation, the great commander grabbed the hand of the old man and held on, preventing him from rising. Reverently and distinctly, the Duke said, “Do not move, we are all equal here.”