Matthew 6:19-21 19 "Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust consume and where thieves break in and steal; 20 but store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust consumes and where thieves do not break in and steal. 21 For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
Luke 12:33-34 33 Sell your possessions, and give alms*. Make purses for yourselves that do not wear out, an unfailing treasure in heaven, where no thief comes near and no moth destroys. 34 For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. *Giving alms = giving to those in need
The early Christians took this teaching seriously: "There was not a needy person among them, for as many as owned lands or houses sold them and brought the proceeds of what was sold. They laid it at the apostles' feet, and it was distributed to each as any had need" (Acts 4:34-35).
Are we this committed to following Jesus? Some people have the idea that in the Kingdom of God, there is no one in need, because the economy is good and there is an unlimited supply. We often believe that in the Kingdom of God, consumerism isn't a problem because God just magically produces enough to match our needs. BUT what if... in the Kingdom of God, there is no one in need, because wealth is redistributed willingly, lovingly, compassionately, unconditionally? What if this kingdom is made up of servants not consumers?
And what if Jesus was teaching that his followers were to begin living this way today? Not because we are forced to do so by laws or church leaders, but because Jesus told us to? How would our lives look differently? How would we model this in front of our children? Would our faith communities be supportive of this lifestyle - would they have our backs in times of hardship or would they mock our choice to follow this teaching of Jesus?
Presbyterians (the denomination in which I am ordained) used to start hospitals, schools, and orphanages. We can barely keep our churches open today. And yet, we own bigger houses, have bigger savings accounts, and send our kids to more expensive schools than our ancestors. Have we lost the way of Jesus?
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