Be generous
Day 477, Monday, Dec. 1
Luke 11:37 – 12:48
Two themes dominate today’s reading: giving and preparation. They are related.
In the parable of the rich fool and in several other ways Jesus drives home the points that greed leads to judgment and generosity leads to blessing.
In 12:15 we read, “Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist in an abundance of possessions.”
But the teachings are not just about avoiding excess possessions. The teachings also emphasize the importance of giving to the poor. In 12:33-34 we read, “Sell your possessions and give to the poor….For where your treasure is, your heart will be also.”
Immediately after that he impores us to keep our lamps burning like servants waiting for their master to return. Both giving up possessions and the act of giving to the poor are part of keeping our hearts and lives prepared for the return of Jesus.
In the first part of today’s reading, Jesus is warning the Pharisees of their coming judgment, and accuses them of approving of the way their ancestors killed the prophets. In 11:49 he says, “Because of this, God in his wisdom said, ‘I will send them prophets and apostles, some of whom they will kill and others they will persecute.’”
As we go about our task of spreading God’s word, remember that the job of the apostle is a continuation of the job of the prophet.
-Rev. Mark Fleming
Monday meditation
Psalms 35:19-28
Do not let those gloat over me who are my enemies without cause; do not let those who hate me without reason maliciously wink the eye. They do not speak peaceably, but devise false accusations against those who live quietly in the land. They sneer at me and say, “Aha! Aha! With our own eyes we have seen it.”
Lord, you have seen this; do not be silent. Do not be far from me, Lord. Awake, and rise to my defense! Contend for me, my God and Lord. Vindicate me in your righteousness, Lord my God; do not let them gloat over me. Do not let them think, “Aha, just what we wanted!” or say, “We have swallowed him up.”
May all who gloat over my distress be put to shame and confusion; may all who exalt themselves over me be clothed with shame and disgrace. May those who delight in my vindication shout for joy and gladness; may they always say, “The Lord be exalted, who delights in the well-being of his servant.”
My tongue will proclaim your righteousness, your praises all day long.
Prayer focus
Do not be far from me, my God and Lord. Vindicate me in your righteousness.