RAVENS AND FLOWERS

Yesterday’s parable is a great introduction to Jesus’ teaching here. If those who have a surplus of possessions are tempted to use them unwisely, those who have less can be equally tempted to inappropriate anxiety. The Teacher tells us, “Give me neither poverty nor riches, but give me only my daily bread. Otherwise, I may have too much and disown you and say, ‘Who is the Lord?’ Or I may become poor and steal, and so dishonor the name of my God” (Prov. 30:8,9). Perhaps stealing is not in mind in what Jesus says, but what about a lack of trust?

Today’s reading builds on yesterday’s idea of being rich towards God. If I can be free from anxiety about the basic needs of life and instead be preoccupied with God’s kingdom, I will be open to how God wants me to use my money and will bank it in heaven. Jesus has already shown that life is not simply about surviving (Luke 12:4–7,15). Now he shows that worrying is not merely futile but demonstrates a faulty view of God’s care and provision. Perhaps it’s easier to trust God if you live in an affluent area of the world—and yet, it’s the most affluent who usually find it hardest to make their money available for God’s disposal. Radical generosity to the needy is the disciples’ alternative to the rich man’s behavior (33) and is often how God provides.

This is, of course, part of what is meant by striving for God’s kingdom, that state where God’s will is perfectly done in every aspect of life. In that context, our worrying over “treasure” (which is not limited to money) merely reflects the smallness of our faith and perhaps dishonors the name of our God.

Are you taken up with the needs of the immediate future, or do you see the ultimate future as being more important?