9th Sunday after Pentecost

Following on from the Bible passage for last week, Jesus is once again talking about money.  This is what Jesus says: ^“Sell your possessions and give to the poor…….. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”  It is a political and economic manifesto which is diametrically opposed to the current way of thinking in most countries.  Do Christians really act out Jesus’ words?  A scrutiny of the bank balances and the diaries of most church folk may suggest not.  You see, it is precisely because we do feel that inflation and economic uncertainty are going to rob us of our future that we save more and invest in elaborate pension plans.  It is a middle-class obsession.  It is because we don’t really feel valued by God that we fill our diaries with so many events to make us feel important and needed.  And yet; and yet, Jesus says that all this is futile because God will give us so much more: “Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has been pleased to give you the kingdom.”  However, like last week, we probably do greatest service to this passage if we do not assume an overly literal interpretation.  Our attitude to all our possessions should be one where we look to share as much as possible.  If you have a big garden, let friends, family, neighbours, church members use it.  If you have a big house demonstrate hospitality to as many people as you can.  In this sense, although not literally ‘selling your possessions’, you sell your right to exclusive ownership.  Once you have done this, focus on what is more valuable: the kingdom of God!