Ord.Wk 29th: Monday 23rd October, 2023 October 23, 2023

Reflection on the WORD

Blinded by Riches – Faith: In today’s Gospel, Jesus proclaims to the crowds, in the “Parable of the Rich man”, that material riches are good.  However, if we are consumed by them, this can lead us to lose the true meaning of our lives, and even the gift of Eternal Life.  Ponder on: IsGod the Giver of all our blessings and faith?  If so, are our “material treasures” still the centre of our lives?

Luke 12:15-21

Jesus said to the crowd, ‘'Watch, and be on your guard against avarice of any kind, for life does not consist in possessions, even when someone has more than he needs.’

Then he told them a parable, ‘There was once a rich man who, having had a good harvest from his land, thought to himself, “What am I to do? I have not enough room to store my crops.” Then he said, “This is what I will do: I will pull down my barns and build bigger ones, and store all my grain and my goods in them, and I will say to my soul: My soul, you have plenty of good things laid by for many years to come; take things easy, eat, drink, have a good time.”

But God said to him, “Fool! This very night the demand will be made for your soul; and this hoard of yours, whose will it be then?” So it is when someone stores up treasure for himself instead of becoming rich in the sight of God.’ 

Today's Pointers on God's Word

As you read the passage what words, phases or meanings caught your attention?

  • In today’s Gospel passage Jesus is not condemning the rich let alone having material wealth. However, Jesus is cautioning us about our attitudes of centering our living on acquiring and accumulating material wealth only.
  • While material wealth is a blessing, we are each challenged to thank God for it and also to use it wisely and for the good of others, especially the needy.
  • What is the treasure in your heart?  Do you have any “room” for God    in your heart? How is God challenging you to live and die in God’s ways?