I've been keeping the idea for this blog at the back of my mind for at least a year now, but as I contemplated the meaning of this parable, I realized that I need to get started on it today. Many have misinterpreted this passage to say that Jesus was preaching against wealth. But his actual target was a life lived for self rather than for heaven, and that's a trap many of us will fall into during our time on earth.
The man in this story had more than enough. He was at a place where he no longer needed to work, and could have devoted his remaining time, talents, and resources to the kingdom. But instead of using the freedom provided by his prosperity to attend to higher matters, he instead chose to retire and live only for himself. He did not realize that his time was up, and that once he stood before the Lord, his earthly treasure would stay behind, leaving him a pauper in heaven.
So often we tell kids to "start saving early", but we fail to take our own advice when it comes to saving up treasure in heaven. I'm starting this blog because I have the time and spiritual gift to do it. I'm still tempted to focus on improving my earthly situation, but when I think about my blessings with a humble heart, I realize I have plenty. So instead I want to encourage and strengthen you, rather than spending every waking minute pursuing a "better life". As Jesus said, "...not even when one is affluent does his life consist of his possessions." In other words, life is more than money.