Luke 18:18-23: Being Rich
Monday, October 20,2025
Written on September 13, 2010 and posted today as a Favorite . . .
When he heard this, he became quite sad, for he was very rich . . .
When we understand what it is we are to do as part of our work in God’s vineyard, it is easy to say that we do not have the strength necessary for this work; and yet St. Paul reminds Timothy that . . .
For God did not give us a spirit of cowardice, but rather of power and love and self-control. So do not be ashamed of your testimony to our Lord, nor of me, a prisoner for his sake; but bear your share of hardship for the gospel with the strength that comes from God. (2 Timothy 1:7-8)
Our own strength is nothing and true strength comes from God alone.
When he heard this, he became quite sad, for he was very rich . . .
When we understand what it is we are to do as part of our work in God’s vineyard, it is easy to say that we do not have the grace necessary for this work; and yet St. Paul reminds Timothy that . . .
He saved us and called us to a holy life, not according to our works but according to his own design and the grace bestowed on us in Christ Jesus before time began. (2 Timothy 1:9)
Grace is given to us in the proportion we need to match the work we are to do.
When he heard this, he became quite sad, for he was very rich . . .
When we understand what it is we are to do as part of our work in God’s vineyard, it is easy to say that we do not have the wisdom necessary for this work; and yet St. Paul reminds Timothy that . . .
In a large household there are vessels not only of gold and silver but also of wood and clay, some for lofty and other for humble use. (2 Timothy 2:20)
Wisdom comes to us as we need it when we maintain constant contact with God, if we allow Jesus to show us the way, and if we open ourselves to the Spirit.
When he heard this, he became quite sad, for he was very rich . . .
We have the choice to be one who becomes sad, thinking that we cannot do as God has asked or one who rejoices, knowing that God always presents us with the tools we will need to do as he has asked. When we are rich in God’s gifts we have nothing to fear, and sadness cannot possibly overcome us.
A re-post from September 25, 2011.
The Noontimes 