Matthew 6:19-34
Dear RTB’ers,
Wealth and anxiety. Two separate topics? Or two topics closely tied together…? Therefore do not be anxious, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ (v. 31) It takes wealth (income) for us to buy our food and drink and clothing – and housing, possibly the most expensive today, but not mentioned by Jesus. And these basic necessities are a difficult purchase for millions of Americans – and an even greater problem for billions of people worldwide.
Money anxiety is a serious problem in the USA today. We see both spouses working just to meet the bills for life’s basic necessities. Then we see childcare so expensive that parents have a difficult time justifying both of them working. Then we have healthcare and healthcare insurance also expensive and increasingly so, a major issue in Congress today. And alongside all that we see pockets of enormous wealth. I remember a time when “millionaire” was a big term; today we talk of billionaires and their undue influence. I even saw an item recently that we have some individuals approaching trillionaire status. And people continue to go homeless and hungry.
Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth … but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven … For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. No one can serve two masters … You cannot serve God and money. (vv. 19-21, 24)
Blessings!
See also: