Someone in the crowd said to him, “Teacher, tell my brother to divide the inheritance with me.” Jesus replied, “Man, who appointed me a judge or an arbiter between you?” Then he said to them, “Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist in an abundance of possessions.” (Luke 12:13-15)
Many Christian women enjoy reading Amish/Mennonite fiction. We wonder if people with limited possessions can be happy. In Kim Vogel Sawyer’s book, Mercy Rains, most of the Zimmerman family are content with their limited possessions. But Shelley is not. She’s a bitter woman who poisons family gatherings.
A man in the crowd interrupted Jesus while he taught about the Kingdom of God. Asking Jesus to arbitrate in a matter of money told Jesus he only cared about the Kingdom of Man. Even though it was customary at that time for the oldest son to get most or all of the inheritance, this little brother wanted half. The older brother wasn’t willing to share. Money would sever the relationship of these brothers. Jesus came to save souls, not settle money disputes. He doesn’t care how much money we have, but he does care if we poison our relationships with greed.
Happiness depends on relationships of love. God loves us and provides us with precious gifts: love, eternal life, relationships, and forgiveness. Would we rather receive money?
Father God, thank you for meeting all my needs and teaching me that loving relationships, not money, are essential for a happy life. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit of love, so I can love and forgive others as you love and forgive me. In Jesus name I pray, amen
As I read this devotion I had a lot of thoughts running through my mind. Judge and Arbitrator brought thoughts about our builder, his contract and the court case. Reading Amish books brought our mom to mind and our dear Amish friends, Wilma, Louie and Brian. Reading about a severed relationship with brothers brought to mind Drew’s family and ours. Jesus didn’t come to settle disputes, but we sure pray to him for guidance when something bad happens in our relationships. The only things that matters in life have nothing to do with money, the house you live in, or the car you drive.
Thanks for your comment. Many families part ways due to inheritance disputes. God wants siblings to work out these matters with love. He shouldn’t have to intervene. I definitely think he will guide us through inheritance disputes or any disputes having to do with money. I will rewrite this one.