Adventures in Odyssey Home Page

Tales of Moderation

Album: Gold Audio 13: It All Started When

Episode: 183

Lesson/Theme: Moderation.

Bible Verse: Matthew 6:19-21; Luke 18:18-25

Characters: Connie, Whit

Writer: Phil Lollar

Sound Designer: Bob Luttrell

Original Air Date: February 22, 1992

Last Air Date: September 2, 2008

Description:
It all started at Whit's house. Connie is there, helping him clean out his garage. There, she notices something: Although Whit is wealthy and owns lots of property, he chooses to live in a modest home. Connie asks Whit about it. She wonders why he doesn't live in a way that better suits his financial status. Whit tells Connie that wisdom and experience have taught him that it's much better to exercise moderation and live more simply. Connie isn't convinced, so Whit gives her a book of three tales, which explains his reasons for living like he does. The first tale is about two farmers. The first farmer lives frugally through good times and doesn't suffer through bad times. The second farmer lives it up during the good times and has nothing when famine strikes. Whit's second tale is about a man who surrounds himself with every expensive and modern appliance available in order to become truly independent. Unfortunately, the man finds that his appliances soon start controlling his life, literally. Finally, Connie reads the story of a rich, young prince who asks a great teacher what he must do to gain eternal life. The teacher tells him to sell all his possessions and give them to the poor. The young prince leaves sadly, he loves his wealth more than he loves anything else. The point is made, Connie understands the importance of moderation. In her prayers that evening, she thanks God for giving her a wise friend like John Avery Whittaker.

Questions:
Connie felt that since Whit was wealthy, he should live like it. Do you agree? Why or why not? What were Whit's reasons for living simply? Why is it important to practice moderation? How can you practice moderation in your life?