The man who insisted that Jesus back up his right to have the inheritance sorted out his way got a shock. Jesus was more interested in what was going on in his heart, and in how he wasn’t getting on with his brother.
Jesus then told a story about the rich farmer who had a bumper year and decided (after a big conference with just himself) that he could build bigger and better barns, so he was set for the rest of his life. God’s verdict , ‘You’re a fool.’ That very night God demanded his soul (life) back, and the man was buried, taking nothing with him. The challenge at the end of the story – be rich to God.
What helps break the power of greed and the fear on not having enough? Well, it’s a dying to the sinful ‘It’s all about me’ self. Compassion helps – hearing the needs of others. Choosing to trust that God is not mean or stingy, but that there is more than enough to go round. Practicing hospitality and sharing. Saying ‘thank you’ in our prayers and attitudes. Simply being aware that life is a gift from God, and that we are invited to share in that. Feeling the mean and tight spots in our hearts, and asking Jesus to come and work on those places. Reading and reflecting on Bible verses that tell us that God loves us, forgives us and has promised to give us more than we need for each day. Discover that there is a sober intoxication about being able to trust in God’s extensive goodness.
