Ninth Sunday After Pentecost 2025

Luke 12:32-40

Revd. Neli Miranda

 

Last Sunday we reflected on the parable of the rich fool who, in his desire to accumulate wealth for himself, was unaware that his life would be demanded of him that very night. In light of this, Jesus offers us a crucial exhortation: “Take care! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; for one’s life does not consist in the abundance of possessions.” This message continues to resonate in our hearts today, emphasizing that “. . .life does not consist in the abundance of possessions” (12,15).

Today, Jesus deepens his teaching on possessions. Before we delve into today’s Gospel, let us recall the verses that immediately precede it, where Jesus encourages us not to worry or be anxious about our material needs. He assures us that God, like a loving father, knows our needs and provides for them: “. . .do not keep striving for what you are to eat and what you are to drink, and do not keep worrying… your Father knows that you need them.  Instead, strive for his kingdom, and these things will be given to you as well (12,29-31).” 

What does it mean to “strive for his kingdom”? It is to actively seek the justice, mercy, and peace of God, which are the basis of communal well-being. This pursuit leads us to live in harmony in a society of abundance where equality and equity prevail, where everyone’s needs are met.

Seeking the Kingdom of God is a daily struggle and can be a great challenge as we contend with systems of power and greed. Yet, Jesus offers a tender reassurance, “. . . do not be afraid, little flock, for it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom (12,32). As the disciples of Jesus, we are that “little flock”—vulnerable perhaps, but cherished. We are not just beneficiaries but heirs and agents of this Kingdom, called to understand it, embody it, and proclaim it.

In today’s Gospel, Jesus provides us with the key to living in the Kingdom. Throughout the Gospel of Luke, he frequently teaches about wealth and possessions, but he does not demonize them but encourages their use for the service of the community. He instructs his disciples, “Sell your possessions, and give alms.” The term “alms” transcends merely giving a few coins to the needy; it is rooted in the Greek word for mercy. Thus, Jesus is calling for radical, transformative acts of mercy, those acts that transform society.

In the first-century world, the socioeconomic gap was a chasm. There were rich and poor and no middle class. Most wealthy individuals often acquired their fortunes by exploiting the poor, and it is estimated that nine out of ten people lived at or below the subsistence level. The rich fool of the parable was not just a hoarder; he was a pillar of an unjust system. He owned a vast portion of land and many slaves. While he planned to build bigger barns, how many of his neighbors were starving?

Today, how many beg for the bread we keep in our refrigerators? When we accumulate far beyond our needs, does our anxiety reflect a lack of faith in God’s providence?

Dear sisters and brothers, today, Jesus brings a lesson to our hearts, “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also (12,34).” Where is our treasure today? Is it in a safe deposit box, a bank, a warehouse, or a pantry? Or is it invested in the imperishable reality of God’s Kingdom?  Jesus does not speak of the home we live in or the food on our table. He speaks of everything we accumulate without needing it. In the logic of the Kingdom, those things are not truly ours; these are resources meant to be shared.  In a community where hearts are set on God, the concepts of selfish accumulation and absolute ownership change to stewardship and generosity.

But the passage does not end here. Jesus immediately connects this practice of detachment to an attitude of readiness: “Be dressed for action and have your lamps lit. Be like those who are waiting for their master to return…” (12,35-36). Our generosity and freedom from possessions are not just a social program; they are the practice of faithful disciples waiting expectantly for their Lord.  Sisters and brothers, we travel light because we are awaiting a call to move. We share freely as a sign, as a seed that will blossom in the world we await. Our vigilant waiting, our hope for the age to come, inspires us and moves to mercy. It is because we await our master that we do not attach our hearts to the treasures of this world.

Dear sisters and brothers, this is our call. Let us strive to be citizens of the Kingdom, sharing our possessions not as an imposition, but as a joyful act of mercy. Let us live with our lamps lit, always watchful and ready. Let us build communities where no one is in need, not only because it is just, but because we are joyfully awaiting the return of our Lord, who has promised us the Kingdom.

This is the good news of the Kingdom of God! Amen.