Basic Item Plus Extras

   There’s a story about a farmer who had purchased a number of cars from a local dealer, but had never been able to get a break on the "optional extras." One day the car dealer called the farmer to say he was coming out to buy a cow from him. The farmer placed a sticker on the cow with the following information:

Basic cow.    500.00
Self-propelled system.    175.00
Deluxe two tone exterior.    75.00
Four-chamber fuel storage energy conversion system (special stomach package)      175.00
Product storage compartment with four accessible spigots @ 15.00 each    60.00
Cowhide upholstery    250.00
Dual horns    20.00
Insect zapped/swatter    18.00
Fertilizer feature    160.00
Documentation fee    50.25
Dealer preparation        163.50
Total Cost    $1,646.75
Notes:
*All factory-fitted extras are non-removable, non-optional.
*Taxes, registration, and use permit to be arranged by new owner
*Delivery available for extra charge.

    Oh how those extras can add up. But you know, God gives lots of extras – air to breathe, trees, grass, flowers, lakes, mountains, friends, families. the list is endless. Then there’s His word and all the spiritual blessings in Christ. Aren’t you glad God does not charge extra for the extras? Enjoy all that God provides, and have a really good day.

- via The Encourager, the weekly bulletin for the Dongola Church of Christ, Dongola, IL.  Gerald Cowan serves the congregation as minister.  He may be contacted at Geraldcowan1931@aol.com

Thanks For What Is Of Greater Value

By Robert Boardman

    There is a story of a young man who proposed marriage to a young woman. He gave her an expensive, beautiful diamond ring enclosed in an attractive blue velvet box. The following day after their engagement, the young woman said, "How can I ever thank you enough for the beautiful blue velvet box? I love it and will always cherish it1" How do you think her beloved felt?
    A ludicrous story? Yet, except that it aptly illustrates the care and attention we humans give in this life to our body and physical well being - which is like the blue velvet box. We spend about ninety-nine percent of our resources and time on something that will return to dust. And we neglect the gift of the diamond, which is our living, eternal soul. We fail to thank God for such a priceless gift, purchased for us by the death of His Son, Jesus Christ.

Source:
Pulpit Helps, date unknown.