"Thus will it be for the one
who stores up treasure for himself
but is not rich in what matters to God.”
(Luke 12:21)
This verse is part of the parable of the rich fool, where Jesus warns against the folly of hoarding earthly wealth without considering one’s spiritual well-being. The key lesson from this verse is the importance of being “rich toward God” rather than accumulating material possessions.
Jesus emphasizes that true richness is found in our relationship with God, not in material wealth. Earthly possessions are temporary, but spiritual treasures are eternal. It reminds us to keep an eternal perspective, focusing on what truly matters in the long run. Our actions and priorities should align with our faith and the teachings of Jesus.
The rich fool placed his security in his wealth, neglecting the reality of his mortality. This verse calls us to trust in God’s provision and to seek His guidance in all aspects of our lives. It also encourages us to use our resources to help others and serve God’s kingdom. Being generous and compassionate reflects our faith and commitment to God.
Reflecting on this verse can inspire us to live more selflessly, prioritize our spiritual growth, and use our blessings to make a positive impact on others.
In a world that chases glitter and gold,
Where wealth is measured by what we hold,
Remember the treasures that never fade,
The riches in heaven that God has made.
Be rich in love, so pure and true,
In every act, let kindness shine through.
For love is the greatest gift we share,
A reflection of God’s tender care.
Be rich in faith, steadfast and strong,
Trust in the Lord, where you belong.
Through trials and storms, let your heart be still,
For God’s grace will guide you, His perfect will.
Be rich in hope, a light so bright,
In darkest times, it gives us sight.
Hope in the promises God has given,
A future secure, a home in heaven.
Be rich in peace, serene and calm,
In God’s embrace, find your balm.
Let His peace guard your heart and mind,
In His presence, true rest you’ll find.
Be rich in joy, a song of praise,
In every moment, let your spirit raise.
For joy in the Lord is our strength each day,
A gift from above, in every way.
Be rich in what matters, not in what fades,
In the love of God, let your life be made.
For treasures on earth will rust and decay,
But the riches in Christ will forever stay.
Dear Lord Jesus, in a world filled with distractions and fleeting desires, help us to seek the treasures that truly matter. Grant us the wisdom to understand that true wealth is found not in material possessions, but in Your love and grace.
Lord, make us rich in love, that we may reflect Your boundless compassion to all we meet. Fill our hearts with kindness and mercy, so that we may be instruments of Your peace. Make us rich in faith, O Lord, strengthen our trust in You, especially in times of trial. Help us to lean on Your promises, knowing that Your plans for us are good and perfect. Enrich us with hope, a hope that shines brightly even in the darkest moments. Remind us of the eternal joy that awaits us in Your kingdom, and let that hope be our anchor and our guide. Bless us with Your peace, a peace that surpasses all understanding. Calm our anxious hearts and minds and let us rest in the assurance of Your presence. Fill us with joy, Lord Jesus, a joy that springs from knowing You and being known by You. Let our lives be a testament to Your goodness, and may our joy be contagious to those around us.
Lord, help us to be rich in what matters to You, to store up treasures in heaven where they will never fade. Guide our steps, shape our hearts, and let our lives glorify Your holy name. In Your precious name, we pray, Amen.
Pericope:
V: The Journey to Jerusalem: Luke's Travel Narrative
SAYING AGAINST GREED / PARABLE OF THE RICH FOOL
Luke 12:13-15 / 16-21
Gospel Acclamation:
Blessed are the poor in spirit; for theirs is the Kingdom of heaven.
Gospel | Luke 12:13-21
13 Someone in the crowd said to Jesus, “Teacher, tell my brother to share the inheritance with me.” 14 He replied to him, “Friend, who appointed me as your judge and arbitrator?” 15 Then he said to the crowd, “Take careto guard against all greed, for though one may be rich, one’s life does not consist of possessions.” 16 Then he told them a parable. “There was a rich man whose land produced a bountiful harvest. 17 He asked himself, ‘What shall I do, for I do not have space to store my harvest?’ 18 And he said, “This is what I shall do: I shall tear down my barns and build larger ones. There I shall store all my grain and other goods 19 and I shall say to myself, “Now as for you, you have so many good things stored up for many years, rest, eat, drink, be merry!” 20 But God said to him, ‘You fool, this night your life will be demanded of you; and the things you have prepared, to whom will they belong?’ 21 Thus will it be for the one who stores up treasure for himself but is not rich in what matters to God.”
Reflection Source:
Conversation with Copilot
