The peril of wealth

‘Teacher’, the man said, ‘ever since I was young, I have obeyed all these commandments’.

Jesus looked straight at him with love and said, ‘You need only one thing. Go and sell all you have and give the money to the poor, and you will have riches in heaven; then come and follow me.’ When the man heard this, gloom spread over his face, and he went away sad, because he was very rich. (verses 20-22)

Read Mark 10:17-31

The story of Jesus and the rich man touches on the topic of the perils of wealth. Scholars have noted that whenever Jesus speaks of money, riches or wealth he includes a negative adjective, a warning. Why that warning is necessary is shown in the life of this rich man. We see how the love of riches was stronger than the love of Jesus. Sadly, this truth has been demonstrated over and over again. Money and riches are not bad in themselves. They are, however, extremely dangerous for our walk with God. They draw people away from God.

The rich young man in the story was such a good chap. He kept the commandments. He was concerned with eternal life. But he failed the wealth test. Many do.

Jesus loved the man. He loves those who are rich, even when they tum away from him.

Riches can be stronger even than Jesus’ love. Be warned.

Gracious Father, you used wealthy people like Abraham and Solomon for your purposes. Have mercy on the rich people of this world. Soften their hearts with your love in Jesus. Help me also to avoid the perils of wealth. Amen.

by Ray Schulz, in ‘New Strength for each Day’ (LCA, Openbook, 1998)

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