A Theology of the Open Hand

When my two grown sons were very young, I purchased a new van for our family. I thought it was the best looking vehicle on the road! I gave it immaculate care…, washing it, polishing it, servicing the engine, and vacuuming the dark brown corduroy seats and carpet. I could have been accused of treating it like a third child in the family.

I began to notice, however, a change in attitude toward my family when we used that van.  The boys would, among other things, often spill some of their "Happy Meals" on the seats and floor. My wife, Kathy, would try to use it as a truck to haul her larger yard-sale purchases. She'd also use it as a "commuter bus" for taking our sons and neighborhood children to activities like Vacation Bible School or swimming lessons.

I began to obsess over every crumb, greasy fingerprint, scratch, and dent! I noticed myself becoming more critical and less loving and fun, particularly when driving the van.

One day, after a lot of soul searching, I discussed with Kathy my need to sell the van.

We then bought a huge, used station wagon with vinyl seats…and even a luggage rack for those larger yard sale purchases! It took me a while to get used to the change. But the freedom I experienced, and the memories of family fun (even food fights!) in that station wagon throughout the next 12 years, remain priceless!

I learned a simple but profound lesson from that experience. A tight grip on a possession was poisoning my heart and my most precious relationships. Learning to loosen my grip and open my hand led me to something so much better.  

This is a basic principle of biblical stewardship which God wants us to catch. God delegated management of his creation to us. He’s tasked us to use his good and bounteous gifts for our good, the benefit of others, and the glory of God. But when we grip those gifts too tightly or we fail to manage them wisely, they can soon control us and bring painful consequences.  

As Jesus humbly "let go" of his divine attributes in order to become a servant in human form, so we must develop the same mindset as godly stewards. If our grip is too tight on our money, time, talents, or even our favorite car (or van!)…we are likely hurting some people down the line, starting with ourselves. Living with an open hand is much healthier for everyone and a lot more fun! 

 "Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped," (Phil. 2:5 ESV)