You can’t take it with you
One thing the recent financial difficulties have shown us is that you cannot put your trust in money. People who had savings suddenly found they weren’t worth what they had been. Those trying to live of the interest of their savings were left with none. Many have lost jobs and businesses and have no income. Things we thought were safe, have turned out not to be. Wealth has proved itself to be no comfort, and not entirely reliable.
All three of this weeks readings take us to wealth and the value, or otherwise, of it.
Amos is still with his theme of how wealth is used. He reminds the rich that though they might have an apparently good life now, as they are not caring for the nation, they will be dragged off, their good times will end. They are not using their wealth to help others, and so ultimately they will pay the price.
Paul reminds Timothy and his companions that we bring nothing into the world, and will take nothing out. Wealth is of no eternal significance – but what we do with it can be.
It is not money per se that is wrong, it is loving it too much, or using it in the wrong way that gets us into trouble. What is important in life is being faithful, gentle, dependable and gentle. They are the path to eternal life. It is not bought, but lived.
Then Jesus tells the story of Lazarus and the rich man. Lazarus was a beggar who had spent his life scraping by on the scraps of the rich man. When he died he was in a place of honour with Abraham. The rich man wanted for nothing in life, but in death was suffering. He knew the teachings, but had got it wrong. His money wasn’t going to save him now.
Money might make life more comfortable, but it doesn’t buy us peace with God. We are challenged to use what we have to bring about justice and fairness, to ensure everyone has what they need – not to make sure we have a good life.
We can’t take it with us – so what are we going to do with what we have today?
Pam's Perambulation 