The Rich and the Kingdom of God
Ezekiel 28:1–10; Psalm 32; Deuteronomy 32; Matthew 19:23–30
Jesus said to his disciples, “Truly, I say to you, it will be hard for a rich man to enter the kingdom of heaven (Matt. 19:23). This statement neither defends the poor nor damns the wealthy. Both wealth and poverty are vanity.
Regardless of our financial situation, we are invited to live a modest and humble life. There are some wealthy individuals who are incredibly modest; some conceited poor people; and some poor people who have a negative outlook on riches. Regardless of your financial status, be a good Christian, and you will make heaven.
Anyone who accumulates wealth without amassing grace will find it difficult to enter heaven. Andrew Murray says; “Pride must die in you, or nothing of heaven can live in you.” In the first reading, the Prince of Tyre, enamored with his wealth, pride and arrogance looked down on God and man, leading to his punishment by God. Ezekiel prophesied against him, emphasizing the importance of not allowing wealth to destroy relationship with God and man.
Let us pray.
Lord Jesus, when you walked the earth, your humility and simplicity obscured your kingship. Your meekness confused the arrogant, hindering them from grasping your purpose. Teach us to model after your eminence and to subject our human nature to humility and simplicity. Amen.
Fr. Daniel Evbotokhai
