Tuesday, 16 December, 2003

This series of devotions are focused around Soren Kierkegaard’s “Christian Discourses etc.” The biblical text to consider during these devotions is: Matthew 6:24-34.



But then indeed the poor Christian is rich? Yes, certainly (the Christian) is rich, and thou shalt recognize him/her by the fact that s/he does not wish to talk about his/her earthly poverty, but rather of his/her riches – and hence no one can understand (the Christian)…except a Christian.



In a day when corporate wealth abounds and the rich continue to become richer and make sure that this will indeed be the continuing cycle of life within the daily events of our world, the Christian is invited to see all things with new eyes. The rich according to the world standards rarely know of the concept of “all people.” Instead, "we" is "me" and "my own." Security is for all that is mine or ours. But we, the followers of Jesus, are invited to turn and give thanks to our God for what is at hand and what is promised. Our wealth is beyond the experience of the wealthy for it cannot be counted or estimated or used as collateral to bring in more wealth. When we consider the lilies and birds we are given the opportunity to remind ourselves of a wealth that comes as our God says “I will be with you for all time…without condition…and without invitation.” The wealth of God’s grace cracks open our hearts and tickles us with the sweet reminder of the wealth of our essence – ah, children of God, beloved.



Connection: Sure we consider our wealth or lack of it. Sure we let it influence our living. But then again, the Good News - the incarnation of God’s gracious Reign – is a word that is meant to sustain us when all other wealth is proven to be like a mist in the air. Today, breathe in the abundance of God’s love for you.



Precious Lord, we lift up this day and offer you thanks for waking us up to the greatest gift of our lives – your never-failing love. When we fear the events of this day be our rock and when we seem to waiver within the anxiety within us, steady our hearts. Keep our minds fresh with your promises. Amen.