City Life Starter

Written by Nate Warren

The Word

But woe to you who are rich, for you have received your consolation.
Luke 6:24

Do not toil to acquire wealth; be discerning enough to desist.

When your eyes light on it, it is gone, for suddenly it sprouts wings, flying like an eagle toward heaven.
Proverbs 23:4-5

“…the rich he has sent away empty.”
Mary’s Song – Luke 1:53b

“…none of you can become my disciple if you do not give up all your possessions.”
Luke 14:33 (NRSV)

Reflection

It is tempting to point out things that are not sins: having a nice car, racking up a lot of airline miles, a fully-funded 401k. Perhaps Jesus would agree with that. I have a few ideas how to make that case biblically. I have written about that previously on this blog, even regarding this very verse.

It’s not a good idea to talk oneself out of the obvious meaning of Jesus words. The problem with focusing on “not a sin” is that I would be justifying a perspective contrary to Jesus’ point about wealth. As Paul tells us, not everything permissible is beneficial (1 Corinthians 10:23).

TL;DR According to Jesus, “being rich” is a hindrance to entering the Kingdom of God. Our desire for security in money or possessions (whether we currently have them or not) stands between us and dependence on Jesus.

Application

Jesus also said that all who follow Him must take up their cross. In order to carry a cross, we have to put down whatever is in our hands. Treasures must be left behind. For most of us, the cross we bear is intangible (but no less real).

Perhaps, for some, to steward the resources in their name as a trustee for the Kingdom of God is the intangible act of “becoming poor.” Their cross may be to die daily to the temptation to inwardly claim personal possession of these things that amount to “being rich.”

For someone else, it may be investing in a business or ministry venture that could bless the world, perhaps at great cost.

It might be taking a significant pay cut to follow the voice of the Lord.

It may be giving to your church beyond the tithe, a mission, or “the poor.”

Are you holding onto a dream, perhaps the American Dream, that you need to let go of to gain the Kingdom?

Whatever it is practically, the practical actions must only symbolize the proper posture of heart: “None of this is mine. I have everything in Jesus, my Lord.“

What is it for you? How does the Spirit of God lead you to “give up” riches and possessions?

Prayer

Oh Gracious Father,
You have given me Everything.
Thank You for Your generous gift.
In gratitude, I want to give everything that used to be mine to You. Lead me to wisdom, in knowing how to trust You for my daily needs, in understanding what it means for me to let go of all attachments, to live by Your Word.
None of this is mine. I have everything in You.
Amen