Generous Giving

I have a guilty pleasure. I like to watch Million Dollar Listing New York. In my previous life I was a salesperson, and for the 38 years I've been a pastor I have been a salesperson of the most wonderful and awesome "product" the world has ever seen and needed; a loving and trusting relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ. I like to keep keen my sales instincts and this show provides a little of that. True, they make way more money than 85% of our churches in one sale. The "they" I'm speaking about are the three main characters of the show. Fredik Eklund, Luis Ortiz, and Ryan Serhant. Fredik is from Sweden and makes the most money. Luis is from Puerto Rico and is the youngest cast member and realtor in the show. Ryan is from the Midwest and does okay for himself. They seek to set records in the sales of the properties they list, and they usually do. They know how to present a sale and how to say and do the right things to bring about a sale.

Long story short: The last show of the season was a behind the scenes look at video that did not make it on the show. And part of that was when the three decided what to do with their money. Fredik, in talking with his assistant, said he wanted to help a charity. He did this while eating sushi and his assistant told him he should give up sushi. Fredik asked how much the meal was worth that he was eating. Fifty dollars, replied the assistant. "Fifty dollars? For this?" asked Fredik, "How much is that a year?" The assistant in doing math in his head, estimated it was about $20,000 per year for one meal. "Well, cut a check for $20,000 for that gift I want to make!"

Luis, after having made a huge commission on an apartment he sold, in talking with the camera said he wanted to reward himself. Next, we see him in the studio of a famous New York artist who sells huge paintings of different things. Given Luis' Latino background, the artist suggested a painting of a matador. The price? $85,000. Luis talked him down to $65,000 and walked off with it.

Ryan ordered a telescoping iPhone holder so he could take selfies of himself without it seeming like he was doing it himself.

A sharp contrast in personalities and gifts. Which of these was truly the most generous? You decide. Which gift was sacrificial? Again, you decide. Which, Jesus asked, gave of himself and all that he had?