On May 25, 2001, a set of Dorothy’s ruby slippers from “The Wizard of Oz” sold for $660,000.00 at an auction of movie and TV memorabilia titled “A century of Hollywood” at Christie’s East. According to an auction house spokesperson, the famous shoes had sold in 1988 for $150,000 at Christie’s. The evening auction brought in more than $1.6 million.

Dorothy’s ruby slippers sold for $660,000.00! Imagine that! In comparison, what is an eternal soul worth? There is no comparison! Obviously, the world thinks much more of earthly fame and material possessions than it does about eternal values.

I wonder how many Christians do the same, at least concerning material possessions. The answer to this question is found in how we spend our money and resources and on what we spend these. I have read that the average church spends 95% of its income on itself . . . and that only 3% of Christians tithe of their income to support God’s work here on earth. What we do and what we give—and to what we give it—speaks volumes as to what we value in life.

Suggested prayer: “Dear Jesus-God, thank you that you valued my soul so much that you gave your life to die on the cross to save me from sin’s eternal damnation. Please help me place the same value on every human soul as you do and live and give accordingly—not just in words but in my actions and in my giving. Thank you for hearing and answering my prayer. Gratefully, in Jesus’ name, amen.”

1. Malachi 3:8 (NIV).