“Becoming Rich Toward God”

Of course, we have needs, and so do our families. Suddenly it dawns on us. The name of our frantic acquisition is greed. Has greed begun owning us? How much is enough? How might we move to becoming richer toward God?

The Story: A person came up to Jesus. This person was not at all happy and was whining to Jesus. (In a whining voice) “Jesus, make my brother give me half of all his stuff! I want half of his.” Jesus just looked at that person for a minute, hoping the person would notice what a selfish thing that was to ask. Then Jesus said, “Be careful! Greed is not a good thing. Greed makes you want stuff you do not need, stuff that does not belong to you. There are much more important things in life than just getting lots of stuff. What is important is that we are rich in our connection with God.”

The person makes a request; Jesus responds with a question. I wonder why? What is the problem Jesus has identified? I wonder if Jesus considered it wrong to be rich? What is involved in being “rich toward God?”

Jesus contrasts the rich man’s focus on accumulating wealth with the idea of being “rich toward God,” emphasizing that true fulfillment comes from a relationship with God and a generous spirit. 

Prayer: God, thank you for all you have given us and all those special people in our lives. Thank you for being with us. Today we especially pray for __________ (insert your petitions and/or thanksgiving). Help us to keep our minds on you. Amen.