O = When I read this I am struck by the intense self-focus of the rich man. He was faced with the kind of problem many of us wish we faced. He had a huge surplus in crops from the land. He was drowning in profits. It would have been normal in that culture to discuss important decisions with close friends and advisors. But this man only speaks with himself. His whole train of thought is “I will…I will…I will…” and predictably enough his decision is a disaster. There was no consideration of God’s will when processing the decision, no consideration of the poor as a solution to the food surplus, and no thought to relationship at all.
A = When I am blessed do I think that it is for me to keep for myself or to share with others? As I face the decisions I have to make every day do I take time to ask God what I should do? Or do I live as though I know best? Am I about building bigger barns or giving more away? Do I desire a life of play, plenty, and party, or a life of meaning, sharing God’s blessings in relationship with others, and a part of God’s work in the world? I choose a life of meaning…now how should I put that plan in motion? I will start by recognizing that what I have comes from God and is still his and I will ask him for direction that I might be a better steward.
P = O Lord, I am so glad that I am not thinking to myself or talking to myself right now. I am thankful that not only are you real, you are near, and you are actively involved in my life. May I use your resources wisely and generously as you fill my barns, and may my trust in your ability to fill them overshadow my fear of emptying them. Lord, should my soul be required of me suddenly, may I not be ashamed of how I was spending the life you loaned me! May you be glorified in word and in deed this week! Amen.
No comments:
Post a Comment