God’s treasure

You have not paid any wages to those who harvest your crops. Listen to their complaints! The cries of those who gather in your crops have reached the ears of God, the Lord Almighty. Your life here on earth has been full of luxury and pleasure. You have made yourselves fat for the day of slaughter.   (verses 4,5)

Read James 4:13-5:6

‘That person drives so fast and so dangerously. It’s as if he thinks he’s immortal!’ I’ve often heard people make this sort of comment, as they watch a car scream past and screech around a corner. Certainly people who drive recklessly don’t seem to understand the possible consequences of their actions – they don’t seem to realise how fragile life is.

In today’s reading St James is talking about the same sort of reckless attitude when it comes to money. Often we can be tempted to live as if the sole purpose of our lives is to acquire wealth, without thinking about the ways such an attitude can hurt other people. What’s more, focusing on acquiring earthly treasure can blind us to God’s love.

You are God’s treasure. He bought you with the blood of Jesus. Your life has eternal significance, and it is safe in his hands. Entrust your life into God’s care, and receive the riches of his joy and peace.

Heavenly Father, since you value me, help me value other people and treat them with justice. Amen.

By Fraser Pearce, in “God’s Promises for each day” (LCA, Openbook Publishers (1999)

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