It’s Black Friday, the day when merchants have fantastic discounts to draw customers into their stores. It’s a Holiday tradition and customers expect to find popular items at unbelievably low prices. Shoppers wait to make major purchases, in hopes of getting what they want for much less money. One great deal can stretch a Christmas budget or bring a major purchase within reach. To get the best deals, people must arrive early, before the items run out. Long lines turn into mobs and frantic shoppers struggle to get what they want. Every year people get hurt or get into fights trying to get a great deal.
Stores usually lose or make very little money on deeply discounted merchandise. They don’t want to join the madness, but they must meet the public demand and stay in business. Their stores would be empty if they didn’t get in on the action. They also hope customers will purchase other items at the regular price.
Cyber Monday is when madness moves to the internet. It’s a multi-billion-dollar event that competes with Black Friday for the shopper’s limited budget. Shoppers can buy from the comfort of home and merchants don’t have the overhead costs of stores. With all major retailers getting in on the event, the competition is fierce, and discounts are deep. Just like the stores, on-line merchants have to offer deep discounts to stay in business.
Will the madness ever end? No. Regardless of the great deals people find this year, they will need to find more next year. The toys they had to get for their children will be cast aside within a short time. The latest electronic gadget will be obsolete before next season. Bigger televisions, faster computers, better phones, and more options will make this year’s treasures next year’s trash. Nothing lasts except the desire for more stuff. Were your great deals really all that great if what you bought won’t last? Maybe we should look for a better deal?
One bright spot in this season is Giving Tuesday. After battling for the lowest prices on the biggest and best we can get for ourselves and our loved ones, it is a major re-direction. Giving should be a year-round and ongoing process, but this can help us focus on the “reason for the season. Our Church would welcome your gifts at HeritageChristianMinistries.org. Many corporations get in on this deal and will match your gifts. As I am writing this story, K-Love (Christian radio) is highlighting Convoy of Hope, who provides essential support after disasters. Giving Tuesday is a great deal, with lasting consequences, but we can do better than that!
The real “great deal” was when “God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life” (John 3:16 KJV). Note that He “gave” so that means it’s free, but it wasn’t cheap! This is an expensive gift that you won’t wear out, it won’t become obsolete and there won’t be a newer model next year. This is the best gift from the best giver. This “great deal” is only yours if you accept it before it expires. This offer expires when you do, and you don’t want to miss this “great deal!”
Wayne Lance – That’s Good News to Share!