Reflecting on Luke 12:13-21“Watch out! Be on your guard against…” (Luke 12:15)
A man comes to Jesus presumably with a legitimate request.
Beneath the surface concern, Jesus sees a deeper concern needing attention.
Jesus does not enter our surface issues, or just fix our external problems.
What is the sickness or sin that is really distorting our lives.
Greed is just one example, there is also lust, or bitterness, or anger.
Even if our cause is legitimate, we need to guard our response to it.
For me right now it is anger over christian complicity with worldly politics.
I can hear myself saying: ‘Jesus, tell them to stop, rebuke or correct them!’
And He replies, “who appointed me a judge or an arbiter between you?” (Luke 12:14).
Instead, beware of the soul-destroying spirit of anger and self-rightness.
Do not become the very thing you accuse them of being: compromised!
Greed comes in many forms, and so do the other soul sicknesses and sins.
They are subtle and sinister, therefore beware, watch out, deal with them.
Stay focused on my own need to love, not other’s failure to love!
If all christians did this, our world would be a much better place!
PRAYER
Lord Jesus, You are reminding me again that self-control, not other-control is a fruit of Your Spirit. Help me to guard my heart against all kinds of unloving, ungracious responses. Change my heart, O Lord!