Almost 2000 years ago, Jesus asked a question that still challenges men and women today: “For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world and forfeits his soul?”(Matt. 16:26a).  It’s as if Jesus decided to speak the language of the marketplace.  “Let’s talk business,” He said. “Let’s talk about profitability, bottom lines, net gains, whatever you want.  I’m prepared.  But let me ask the first question.  Is it good business to spend 40+ years of your lives trying to capture all this world has to give, only to lose your very soul for eternity?  Does that make sense?  Think about it.  What will your high achievements, your prestigious positions, your money, and your power do for you when your quota of earthly days is filled?”

In our business and secular organizations, we may be considered “key people,” uniquely gifted in identifying the basic problems that can jeopardize profitability and productivity.  We may excel in the marketplace, becoming the presidents of companies, the chairmen of boards, or the CEOs of corporations.  We may be respected for our insight and perception of the realities of business.  But can we apply our practical business savvy to the larger matters of life and eternity?  We know how to make the right choices in business, but do we likewise know how to make the right choices in life?

Jesus took this thought a step further by saying, “Or what will a man give in exchange for his soul?” (Matt. 16:26b).  He asks, “Let’s talk trade.  Let’s talk values and comparisons. You have one soul.  Is there anything worth trading for your soul?  Anything?”

These are profound, even haunting words.  Jesus seemed to imply that there is a frequent connection between “gaining the world” (whatever that may mean to us) and neglecting the greater issues of eternity.  We can’t have it all.  World conquering isn’t an easy task.  It may demand a high price, even our souls.  So, what kind of deal is it to get everything we want, but lose ourselves?  What could we ever trade our soul for?

Have a Merry Christmas!  Jesus is the reason for the season!

Bill Wong