Life’s true riches

Command those who are rich in the things of this life not to be proud, but to place their hope, not in such uncertain things as riches, but in God, who generously gives us everything for our enjoyment. Command them to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share with others. In this way they will store up for themselves a treasure which will be a solid foundation for the future. And then they will be able to win the life which is true life.  (verses 17-19)

Read 1 Timothy 6:11-21

Charles Dickens’s story of Ebenezer Scrooge in A Christmas Carol vividly portrays the temptations of wealth that Paul mentions in today’s reading, namely, pride, selfishness and obsession with money itself. But through a series of Christmas visions, Scrooge’s outlook on life is transformed, and he dedicates his life and money to the service of others.

At present you may or may not be materially comfortable. You may have experienced both wealth and poverty in your life, or you may have always struggled to pay debts. Whatever your circumstances, Paul encourages you to let go of your anxieties about money and possessions, and to gain a lasting treasure by putting your hope not in things but in God. God knows what you really need and wants to give it to you. As his baptised child, ask your heavenly Father for the true riches of a Christ-like generosity of spirit, which is the only ‘solid foundation for the future’ .

Holy Spirit, all generosity, good works and love for others come as gifts from you. May I use my gifts to your glory. Amen.

by Margaret Hunt, in ‘New Strength for each Day’ (LCA, Openbook, 1998)

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