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REFLECTION

Words of a Convicting truth is theme for our reflection. A Convicting truth is a fact presented or an evidence adduced that leads a person to the admission of his or her error or the truth of his or her action. Jesus used the parable of the dishonest manager to teach those who are caught up in the web of loving both God and money. The Pharisees who were obsessed with money were convicted of truth when Jesus said “No servant can serve two masters, for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and money.” The Pharisees, who were lovers of money, heard all these things, and they ridiculed him. And he said to them, “You are those who justify yourselves before men, but God knows your hearts. For what is exalted among men is an abomination in the sight of God. (Luke 16:13-15)

It is important to note that one of the efficiencies or power of Scripture is that, it humbles and judges us with the convicting truth about our hidden thoughts and deeds before other people and God. Some of the Pharisees had hitherto pretended to love God and serve Him by their strict adherence to the Law and the Prophets, indeed people exalted or praised them for their public display of religion, but in their hearts they were lovers of money. It was for this reason Jesus said to them “The Law and the Prophets were until John; since then the good news of the kingdom of God is preached, and everyone forces his way into it. But it is easier for heaven and earth to pass away than for one dot of the Law to become void.” (Luke 16:16-17). In other words, some of the Pharisees may miss their salvation by mere adherence to the Law and Prophet without genuinely accepting the message of repentance that John the Baptist preached.

In our day, we are equally faced with the temptation of erroneously taking routine adherence to religious practices such as attending Sunday worship services, group meetings, participating in the Eucharist, singing, praying, leading worship services and preaching as being fully devoted or committed to our salvation and love of God. Dear friend, aside the outward display of religious practices to the admiration and acknowledgement of our fellow Christians, the question remains whether or not we truly love God more than money with its accompanied wealth and riches. Are we not fond of giving excuses with our work and businesses when we are called upon to devote part of our time to the service of God? Are we not usually in a hurry to go to work hence do not make time for personal prayer and Bible study? Do we not find ourselves involved in bribery and other corrupt practices to make more money and amass wealth, but come to sit before God on Sundays as saints? Serving God at one’s own convenience does not amount to loving God more than money. The convicting truth is that there are many Christians who love money and prosperity more than God, indeed many come to church or appear to be serving God because of what God will do for them in times of need or challenges. Let us always remember that “God is Spirit and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth” (John 4:24). Shalom.

PRAYER

Almighty God, “may these words of my mouth and this meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, LORD, my Rock and my Redeemer. Amen (Psalm 19:14)