Wisdom 18:6-9                                    Hebrews 11:1-2,8-19                                     Luke 12:32-48

The first reading recalls the faith the Israelites had put in God and the blessings they received from him.  In Hebrews, a firm faith is praised as evidence of things not seen.  In the Gospel, Jesus teaches about dependence upon God for everything, and that we are to live our faith in constant readiness for our Lord’s return in glory.

In living our faith, we are to reach beyond human nature and live our lives in constant readiness to stand before the Lord.  As we learn to depend more upon God, we can overcome fear.  God wants us to keep our focus on him, and seek out and do his will, so we will not be overwhelmed by anxiety, but rather, filled with his peace.

Ecclesiastes 1:2; 2:21-23                      Colossians 3:1-5,9-11                                   Luke 12:13-21

In Ecclesiastes, believers are cautioned that the wants and ways of the world are folly.  In Colossians, Paul directs believers to set their hearts on the things of God, rather than on earthly things.  In the Gospel, Jesus tells the parable of a rich man who stockpiles an abundance of riches, which are of no use to him when he is to stand before God.

The wants and ways of the world are fruitless.  To worry about the abundance of possessions and other earthly rewards usually separates us from God’s blessings, which endure.  Growing rich in the things that pertain to God, such as faith and love, may not gain an earthly reward, but does offer us the reward of eternal life in heaven.