pastorjohnb

Thoughts and musings on faith and our mighty God!

Tag Archives: wealth


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Gracious and Generous

Reading: Luke 15-16

Luke 15:19 – “I no longer deserve to be called your son. Take me on as one of your hired hands.”

We begin with three parables about “lost” things. The parables of the lost sheep and the lost coin follow the same pattern: a thing is lost, a careful search is made, the thing is found, and a celebration follows. A similar celebration happens in heaven when a sinner changes heart and life.

The third parable centers on a lost son. The truly lost one is not the one in the early parts of the parable. The younger son is initially lost but realizes it and “comes to his senses.” He decided on these words: “I no longer deserve to be called your son. Take me on as one of your hired hands.” People can feel this way with God. We can feel this way. Yet in the father’s persona we see a God who runs to us with unconditional love. It doesn’t matter what we’ve done (or left undone) – God loves us and will offer grace always. We’re always welcomed back into the family of God. Sometimes we are called upon to help others understand this too.

The older son is truly lost. He sees himself as a servant and not as a son. His is a joyless yet dutiful existence. That is why anger rises so quickly. Even though the father reminds him of his inherited place in the family, he cannot move past his anger. The story leaves us hanging. What will the oldest son do? Will he too “come to his senses” or will he remain furious?

Chapter 16 holds two parables that deal with wealth. In the first story a manager cleverly uses money to benefit others in the present and to insure his own future. We are called to do the same. Wealth is just a tool to employ in the building of the kingdom. The second story reinforces this point. The rich man did the opposite, hoarding his wealth, ignoring the man in need right under his nose. His future does not end well. He did not listen to the Law and the prophets. We have these as well as the “one who rises from the dead.” May we hear Jesus’ call to be both gracious and generous, doing all we can to redeem the lost.

Prayer: Lord God, when we’re “lost” ourselves, help us to “come to our senses” again and again. And help us to walk alongside those who feel undeserving of your grace and forgiveness, enabling them to see their place in the family. And, Lord, when we struggle, thinking another undeserving of your or our grace, remind us of your great love that redeemed a sinner like us. May we gratefully receive and generously give of your love, grace, and forgiveness. Amen.


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We’ve Been Given Much

Reading: Luke 11:37-12

Luke 12:33 – “Make for yourselves wallets that don’t wear out — a treasure in heaven that never runs out.”

Photo credit: Tyler Milligan

Today’s reading deals with authentic versus surface commitment to God. And it speaks into the worry and doubt and anxiety that is so common in our world today. These two topics relate to one another.

Our words from chapter 11 address the outward and superficial faith lived out by the Pharisees and legal experts. They tithe their herbs but neglect justice and love. They crave recognition and status. They place huge expectations on others but don’t help them and often get in the way of their faith development. These condemnations create deep resentment towards Jesus. But we must ask: Which would be addressed to the faith lived out by you and me?

Chapter 12 mostly focuses on trusting in God’s love and care instead of getting caught up in worry and fear or in the cares and concerns of the world. Jesus reminds us that God cares for and loves us much more than sparrows, ravens, and lilies. Each of these is provided for. How much more will God provide for us, God’s dearly loved children.

Jesus warns against greed, specifically against hoarding or storing up. These inwardly focused acts draw us away from compassion, empathy, and generosity. We are encouraged to release our “things,” to give to those in need. Doing so, we “make for yourselves wallets that don’t wear out — a treasure in heaven that never runs out.” Nothing can take these eternal things away. Jesus sums up why it is so important to be selfless: “Where your treasure is, there your heart will be too.”

Jesus also addresses our spiritual readiness. As servants of God we all have roles to play. We are to be diligent and faithful in how we use all of our resources – time, talents, gifts, wealth… “Much will be demanded from everyone who has been given much.” Friends, we have been abundantly and generously blessed by our God.

Prayer: Lord God, yes, you love us far beyond our understanding. And, yes, you care for us unlike any other. Yet worry and fear and earthly concerns can creep in. We can question you. In these moments, remind us of your truths and promises. Speak these into our hearts, Holy Spirit of God. Amen.


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Service and Sacrifice

Reading: Mark 9-10

Mark 10:24 – “Children, how hard it is to enter the kingdom of God!”

Photo credit: Shane Rounce

The transfiguration of Jesus begins today’s readings. On a mountain top with Peter, James, and John, Jesus becomes “amazingly bright.” Elijah and Moses come and talk with Jesus. God speaks, saying, “This is my Son, whom I dearly love. Listen to him!” These words echo God’s words at Jesus’ baptism. Coming down the mountain Jesus finds a hubbub. The disciples were unable to cast out a demon. Jesus laments the lack of faith. The father begs Jesus for his son’s healing and admits his own lack of faith. Jesus casts out the demon. How do you think this affected the father’s lack of faith?

Jesus tells the disciples once again of his coming death. They, in turn, argue about who is the greatest among them. Jesus gathers the disciples and reminds them that the first will be the least, the servant. He explains that there is a cost to being a follower. It might cost a hand or foot or eye if that leads one into sin. Jesus is telling them to do anything to avoid sin and disobedience to God.

A rich man comes and asks about obtaining eternal life. He has kept the commands faithfully. After Jesus “looked at him carefully and loved him,” he is instructed to sell all that he has. The man goes away sad. Jesus goes on to say, “Children, how hard it is to enter the kingdom of God!” Much can get between us and Jesus. It’s not just our wealth or our possessions. When Jesus looks carefully at our hearts, what does he see that vies for the throne of our hearts?

Once again Jesus tells of his death. This time he is very clear. James and John come with a request: to sit at Jesus’ left and right in heaven. Power is their struggle. Jesus, with great patience, again tells the 12 that the greatest will be the servant and the first will be slave to all. Jesus again reminds them – and us – that he came not to be served but to serve and to give his life “to liberate many people.” May we too choose service and sacrifice.

Prayer: Lord God, humble servant, slave to all, keeping you #1 in our hearts – no, discipleship is not easy. We must first die to self – the greatest barrier to walking humbly and obediently. Guide us in this necessary and daily act of surrender. Grant us the faith and trust, the strength and courage to do so each day. Amen.


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Trust, Faith… Each Day

Reading: Matthew 6

Matthew 6:24 – “No one can serve two masters.”

Photo credit: Wesual Click

As Jesus continues the Sermon on the Mount he addresses showy religion, prayer, and fasting. To give to the poor or to pray or to fast in ways to be noticed by others – then that recognition will be our only reward. Jesus advises us to do these things in private or in secret. Then our reward will come from God. When we pray, Jesus cautions against “a flow of empty words.” He gives us a simple and humble prayer, one grounded in loving God and neighbor. We know this prayer as “The Lord’s Prayer.”

Jesus then addresses our tendency towards our “treasures.” Today he’d caution us against collecting homes, cars, the latest gadgets, bigger bank accounts… Instead he encourages us to collect treasures in heaven. Some examples of how to do this were given in verses 1-18. In verses 22-24 Jesus connects this struggle into the common Old Testament, Jewish understanding about good/evil, light/dark. In first century Palestine the eye was seen as the window or door to the heart (or soul for us). Jesus clearly believes the best choice is light. He then states, “No one can serve two masters.” God and wealth is the example Jesus gives. While probably the biggest struggle for most of us, there are many other things that we can prioritize over our relationship with God.

Chapter 6 closes with perhaps one of our greatest adversaries in our battle to trust God: worry. We can worry about so many things, big and small. Jesus points to the birds and lilies – examples of parts of creation that God cares wonderfully for. He points out that we are worth much more than these to God. We are told to “desire first and foremost God’s kingdom.” Keep God #1 in your life, Jesus says, and “all these things” will be given to you by God as well. Jesus concludes, “Stop worrying about tomorrow… Each day has enough trouble of its own.” Trust God each day, believing that our “daily bread” will come from our God who loves us.

Prayer: Lord God, you call us to a simple faith, to a day by day walk with you. To focus on the day, to live each moment, we have a chance to notice the opportunities and ways you call us to love completely. To stay in the moment, it focuses our heart on you and in your presence in our lives each day. Help us to live a simple and honest faith today, O God. Amen.


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Much Lament

Reading: Ezekiel 27-32

Ezekiel 28:18 – “Therefore, I will bring fire from your midst. When it has consumed you, I will turn you into dust on the earth.”

Photo credit: Greg Rakozy

Most of chapters 27 and 28 are a lament for Tyre. Tyre had it all: beauty, trade, allies, wealth, abundance. Until God took it all away. Their prince was arrogant, saying, “I am God, I rule the seas!” God conceded that his wisdom and discernment were great, making him rich and powerful. But the claim, the pride – too much. Because the prince exalted himself, God declared, “Therefore, I will bring fire from your midst. When it has consumed you, I will turn you into dust on the earth.” At the end of chapter 28 we find a prophecy against Sidon. There will be a plague followed by the sword. Into this land, God will gather Israel. There they will build houses, will plant vineyards, and will live in safety.

Chapters 29-32 bring judgment against Egypt. God will set hooks in the great crocodile, flinging it onto open ground. Egypt is condemned as a “flimsy crutch” that splintered or broke in times of need. Because Pharaoh also claimed divinity – he created and owned the Nile, God will make Egypt an utter ruin – the most ruined place anywhere. God will one day regather Egypt, but it will remain lowly. Nebuchadnezzar will conquer Egypt and carry off its wealth – “wages for his army.”

In chapter 31 God compares Egypt to Assyria – the tallest of trees. There was no equal to Assyria in Eden, God’s garden. And yet Assyria fell, going down to the underworld. Assyria’s allies went along too. Elam and Edom and Sidon are there too – laid among the uncircumcised, those slain by the sword. Many arrogant and evil nations will come to a bitter end. Much Lament will be shared.

Prayer: Lord God, open our ears today to these warnings against being arrogant and greedy and selfish. When we get to thinking we’re king of the roost, remind us that we’re not. Humble us, bring us down to where we should be. Guide us to walk in your will and way. Amen.


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Paths Diverge Sharply

Readings: Proverbs 3

‭Proverbs 3:34-35 – “He mocks mockers, but he shows favor to the humble. The wise gain respect, but fools receive shame.”

Today’s reading first invites us to hold onto loyalty and faithfulness, to bind them on our necks, to write them on “the tablet of your heart.” In later years the Jews would write scriptures on pieces of paper and would place these in small boxes that they strapped to their forearms and foreheads. They knew that wisdom came through a relationship with God that was founded on God’s word. These phylactery boxes were visible reminders of God, much like the crosses and tattoos many Christians wear today.

Solomon reminds us, the sons and daughters, that wisdom brings happiness, long life, wealth, and honor. With wisdom, our work and our sleep is pleasant and peaceful. We are encouraged to hold onto sound judgment and discretion. Wisdom gives us the ability to think through things, to make good decisions. Wisdom also builds up in us humility as we learn more and more about trusting in God and not in self. These practices will bring “life” to our “whole being” – heart, mind, body, and soul.

In verses 27-35 we find some warnings followed by the outcomes of choosing evil or of choosing wisdom and of walking in a relationship with the Lord. The warnings: don’t harm your neighbor, don’t accuse for no reason, don’t envy violent people. Those who choose these paths are cursed, detestable, mocked, and shamed. Those who choose the path of wisdom are close friends with God, are blessed, shown favor, and gain respect. The best choice is clear. The two paths diverge sharply. “My son, [my daughter,] don’t forget my instruction.”

Prayer: Lord God, your ways are good, just, right. Your heart is full of love, grace, compassion, mercy. You give provision for those in need, peace for those who are troubled. Lord, fill us with your wisdom so that we too can be these things lived out in the world today. Amen.


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Faithful Love Forever

Readings: Psalms 131-136

‭Psalm 135:14 – “The LORD gives justice to his people and has compassion on those who serve him.”

We begin with Psalm 131, a song of humility. The psalmist isn’t proud or conceited, doesn’t stray from his or her lane. There is contentment in God’s presence. So, “Israel, wait for the Lord.” Psalm 132 speaks of why they can and should. God dwells in the temple and God made a covenant with David. The promise was to have a Davidic king on the throne forever – if they’re faithful. God’s presence provides food, salvation, and protection. The faithful one will shine.

Psalm 133 speaks of unity: “how good and pleasing it is.” Living in unity brings blessings and leads to eternal life, two gifts of God. Psalm 134 gives a pattern of response: lift your hands, bless the Lord! Praise the maker of heaven and earth! Psalms 135 and 136 develop this theme.

Psalms 135 and 136 are very similar. Both call for praising the Lord. Both recall acts that show God’s wonder, power, and might in nature and in Israel’s history. Psalm 135 reminds us that idols are “just gold and silver.” How we still need that reminder. Wealth, in whatever form we chase, is “just gold and silver.” Psalm 136 repeats the line, “God’s faithful love lasts forever,” 26 times. It is the repeated response to all that God has done and to all that God is. May it be our response as well!

Prayer: Lord God, lead us to walk humbly today with you and with all that we encounter. Guide us to live as light, as ones anointed in your love. Remind us too of all the ways that you have compassion on us, your children. And use us today to reveal your faithful love to all of creation. Amen.


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God Is Still God

Readings: Psalms 73-75

‭Psalm 74:1 – “Why does your anger smolder at the sheep of your own pasture?”

Psalm 73 faces a reality that we all deal with from time to time. The psalmist envies the wealth and blessings of the wicked. The psalmist states, “I’ve kept my heart pure for no good reason.” He feels as if he stayed innocent for nothing – except to be weighed down by hard work. We can feel this way. We can question if holding onto our faith is really worth it. We can be jealous of what others have: wealth, power, health, popularity. The psalmist then enters the sanctuary. He prayed. He understood that the wicked will perish and that God is always with him. He declares that God is “my heart rock and my share forever.” Hallelujah!

Communal tragedy has struck in Psalm 74. The enemy has won, the temple is burned down, no prophet is left. The psalmist asks the “how long?” question: “Why does your anger smolder at the sheep of your own pasture?” A shift comes in verse 12. Remembered are the mighty works of God’s hand. The psalmist calls on God to remember the covenant. He cries out, “God, rise up! Make your case!” Prove to us and to the world that God is still God.

Psalm 75 closes today’s readings. It “balances” Psalms 73 and 74. It is a promise that God’s justice will come. It is a reminder that God will bring this person down (the wicked) and that God will raise up that person (the righteous.) It is a Psalm that trusts deeply in who and what God is and will be. May we too live righteous lives, trusting in our God of justice and righteousness.

Prayer: Lord God, when our flesh longs for the things of this world, remind us of your everlasting love. When envy or jealousy rises up in our hearts, remind us that you are a jealous God. And when tragedy strikes, remind us of your peace that passes all understanding. Lead us to rest and trust in you. Amen.


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God Is Still God

Readings: Psalms 73-75

‭Psalm 74:1 – “Why does your anger smolder at the sheep of your own pasture?”

Psalm 73 faces a reality that we all deal with from time to time. The psalmist envies the wealth and blessings of the wicked. The psalmist states, “I’ve kept my heart pure for no good reason.” He feels as if he stayed innocent for nothing – except to be weighed down by hard work. We can feel this way. We can question if holding onto our faith is really worth it. We can be jealous of what others have: wealth, power, health, popularity. The psalmist then enters the sanctuary. He prayed. He understood that the wicked will perish and that God is always with him. He declares that God is “my heart rock and my share forever.” Hallelujah!

Communal tragedy has struck in Psalm 74. The enemy has won, the temple is burned down, no prophet is left. The psalmist asks the “how long?” question: “Why does your anger smolder at the sheep of your own pasture?” A shift comes in verse 12. Remembered are the mighty works of God’s hand. The psalmist calls on God to remember the covenant. He cries out, “God, rise up! Make your case!” Prove to us and to the world that God is still God.

Psalm 75 closes today’s readings. It “balances” Psalms 73 and 74. It is a promise that God’s justice will come. It is a reminder that God will bring this person down (the wicked) and that God will raise up that person (the righteous.) It is a Psalm that trusts deeply in who and what God is and will be. May we too live righteous lives, trusting in our God of justice and righteousness.

Prayer: Lord God, when our flesh longs for the things of this world, remind us of your everlasting love. When envy or jealousy rises up in our hearts, remind us that you are a jealous God. And when tragedy strikes, remind us of your peace that passes all understanding. Lead us to rest and trust in you. Amen.


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God Is Still God

Readings: Psalms 73-75

‭Psalm 74:1 – “Why does your anger smolder at the sheep of your own pasture?”

Psalm 73 faces a reality that we all deal with from time to time. The psalmist envies the wealth and blessings of the wicked. The psalmist states, “I’ve kept my heart pure for no good reason.” He feels as if he stayed innocent for nothing – except to be weighed down by hard work. We can feel this way. We can question if holding onto our faith is really worth it. We can be jealous of what others have: wealth, power, health, popularity. The psalmist then enters the sanctuary. He prayed. He understood that the wicked will perish and that God is always with him. He declares that God is “my heart rock and my share forever.” Hallelujah!

Communal tragedy has struck in Psalm 74. The enemy has won, the temple is burned down, no prophet is left. The psalmist asks the “how long?” question: “Why does your anger smolder at the sheep of your own pasture?” A shift comes in verse 12. Remembered are the mighty works of God’s hand. The psalmist calls on God to remember the covenant. He cries out, “God, rise up! Make your case!” Prove to us and to the world that God is still God.

Psalm 75 closes today’s readings. It “balances” Psalms 73 and 74. It is a promise that God’s justice will come. It is a reminder that God will bring this person down (the wicked) and that God will raise up that person (the righteous.) It is a Psalm that trusts deeply in who and what God is and will be. May we too live righteous lives, trusting in our God of justice and righteousness.

Prayer: Lord God, when our flesh longs for the things of this world, remind us of your everlasting love. When envy or jealousy rises up in our hearts, remind us that you are a jealous God. And when tragedy strikes, remind us of your peace that passes all understanding. Lead us to rest and trust in you. Amen.