Engaging Scripture: Luke - The Parable of the Rich Fool ~ Christine Malkemes
Dear Sister Disciples,
We have the privilege of hoarding or minimizing what we own. Both are a kind of obsession. The hoarder never has enough and the minimalist throws away even the gifts of her friends because it is too much. As usual, Jesus gets down immediately to the heart of the matter.
They are possessed by their possessions.
Reading Plan: Luke 12:12-21
The Word
Then He said to them, “Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist of an abundance of possessions.” Luke 12:15
— Luke 12:15
Contemplative Reflection
A roof over our head, money in the bank, clothes in our closet, food in our pantry, car in our garage, electricity, water, and that smartphone can be taken for granted. All that we have is a gift from the Lord. What we do with it is a gift to Him.
If what we own owns us then where is God in our heart? The abundance of life does not come from possessions.
The thief comes only to steal, kill, and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full. John 10:10
John
10:10
Abundant life is a life kept, saved, and lived for the Lord. Everything we treasure can be taken away in a blink of an eye, but what belongs to the Lord is ever secure.
There was a woman once who proudly lived a frugal life. She owned little furniture, just enough to sit, sleep, and watch TV. In her kitchen cupboard was only one cup, one dish, one bowl and one set of silverware.
Sadly, she died as she had lived, alone. The rich man died as He had lived too. Both lived for themselves or thinking beyond themselves.
No wonder the Lord warns us to guard our soul against greed.
The thief will steal, kill, and destroy in spite of how much or how little we possess.
Yield everything you have to the Lord. Watch as your soul is set free to worship the Lord in gratefulness and peace.
Blessed is the woman who is wholeheartedly the Lord’s.
Christine Malkemes is a wife, mother, minister, and retired Army Officer. Her passion is to see women find intimacy in their relationship with the Lord. She will tell you the most powerful prayer she ever sent to heaven was "Lord, You must become more and me less!" She is on a journey to the heart of God. Will you join her.
