Palisades

Bill and I are facing an interesting dilemma.  He and his sister are in the process of settling the estate left to them by their parents.  The largest portion of the estate consists of a single family home in the city.  In addition both Bill and his sister co-own a small, rundown, but beautiful recreation property.

The decision we face, is whether to use the cash from the city property he inherits to buy sole ownership of the recreational property, or accept the cash from the city property and continue to jointly own and manage the recreational property.  I have discovered there are many things to consider.  I am appreciating the fact that with increased resources, comes increased responsibility.  Property is not simply something a person accumulates.  Property is a stewardship that has to be sustained, maintained and used.  It can be a source of great satisfaction and joy, but it requires attention, organization, resources and accountability.

Bill and I have asked ourselves some of the following questions: What would the Lord have us spend our time and resources, doing?  What is the best way to preserve and expand the use of this land?  Is it simpler to manage the use and expenses with others, or is it easier to have full control of the decisions and future possibilities?  What obligation should we feel toward his parents, in preserving what they have given us?  How can we maintain relationships and feelings in the extended family while making these decisions?

View from Palisades cabin deck

It is interesting that these "things" have come to us without any effort on our part.  There are benefits and drawbacks to both scenarios   Either way requires an accounting and stewardship.  We face decisions about how to properly use, save, or invest.  This is a new experience for us, who have spent all our effort investing everything we have, into building a small business.  This is the first time we have had something to keep.  And, what role does all this play in the Lord's greater plan for us, he who owns and creates all things?  Is he presenting to us our next opportunity, to be stewards over just a little more?  We are looking to him for help in making this decision.