Reflection by Rev. Leonard N. Peterson
We can all easily that scene from books, plays, or movies called “The Reading of the Will.” A group of people are gathered in a lawyer’s office to hear him read out the terms of what a deceased supposedly “loved one” has decided for his inheritors to receive. We picture the expressions on the faces. Some are tearful. Some are dry-eyed and intense.
As the narration progresses, the expressions change. One thing for sure: any scowls among then mean we’re in for some rough scenes ahead. Some mayhem; maybe even murder.
And it’s all about m-o-n-e-y.
The theme of today’s Scriptures is all about the foolishness of making much ado about financial wealth. In a culture like our own, complete with the “haves” and the “have nots,” we know that for many people money matters are the only “matters” that matter! Therefore, it’s almost “un-American” to agree with Christ’s perspective, which He makes clear in the parable He tells us today.
So, the cultural question becomes “Who is right?” Do we rush to extremes to justify our own outlook, whatever that may be? Proffer such lame excuse as “I work hard for my money and I can keep it all if I want to,” permitting one to hold back from donating any of it? Or “the Church is always asking for money and that’s not right for any religious group”? This, even when the need the Church is trying to meet, is to help fellow human beings in dire straits?
In other words, we are adept at finding reasons to keep a tight grip on our wallets and purses. Sometimes our observations are on target when truths emerge about funds deliberately mishandled by so-called charitable organizations like Churches. But it all comes down to the cold fact that we can’t take it with us. As the late Billy Graham put it, “You never see an armored car behind a hearse.”
Another less obvious but certifiable fact: we all have a scheduled appointment with our Maker that we cannot cancel or avoid. He is the one who preached the parable we hear today, and He will be running the meeting.
One of God’s many characteristics is that of generosity. He made us all from nothing and gives us everything our eyes can see, and our brains imagine. So, there’s no doubt about His generosity. What about yours and mine? Here’s a helpful little ditty that can make you smile and decide:
“Do your givin’
While you’re livin’;
Then you’re knowin’
Where it’s goin.’”
God love you and give your His generous Heart.
Rev. Peterson’s Reading & Gospel Summary
Reading I: Ecclesiastes 1:2, 2:21-23
“Vanity of vanities” means “the utmost vanity.” It applies to all the things that make up our life and labor in this world. We only fool ourselves if we rate them higher than they deserve.
Reading II: Colossians 3: 1-5, 9-11
St. Paul acknowledges the faith of the community. He also prays that they live “worthy of the Lord.” That means setting one’s heart on what lasts forever.
The Gospel: Luke 12: 13-21
How is one to grow “rich” in God’s sight is the question we must answer. Just when you decide on the answer, then to “eat, drink, and be merry” God might call you home. Then what?