I stood at the entrance to our village home in Java with an early morning breeze rustling the paw-paw leaves, and noticing an elderly, bare-footed, wrinkled lady shuffling along in the grass at the side of the road.

'Good morning, Mother,' I greeted. 'Where are you going?'

She returned my greeting with customary, Indonesian courtesy, explaining in her language that she was shifting home.

'Who helps you,' for she was alone? She was surprised when I enquired, quietly assuring me, 'There is no other. I have no need.' She shrugged her shoulders, indicating that the bundle on her back contained all her earthly possessions, with which she was content.

In contrast, my husband and I once visited the home of prosperous, medical colleagues. Three huge chandeliers dominated the spacious lounge, while our feet literally sank into plush carpet, as I thought of our well-worn one at home. I was not sure in which of several lounges I should sit.

This was not exactly a social visit. The ten-year-old college son came from his shower, swathed in a huge, bath-sheet, pleading, 'Please help Mum and Dad get things sorted out.' Their shaky marriage could not be restored with well-off, material possessions, and the longing for more. Both successful partners were discontented, unhappy, and yet, so wealthy.

In the first century, Paul, a follower of Jesus Christ, was imprisoned for his faith.
He wrote comforting letters to his friends in Philippi. Whether the circumstances were favourable, or lacking material goods, and living in poverty, Paul was satisfied.
He was neither anxious nor covetous, for he enjoyed the presence, provision, strength and power of God.

'GODLINESS WITH CONTENTMENT IS GREAT GAIN.'