Life is So Much More Than Things

By Mary Vee
Luke 12 

From Luke's Journal 

Outskirts of Jerusalem- Photo by Mary Vee

My name is Luke, I am a disciple of Jesus. The other disciples are here with me as well. 

Jesus had just spoken to the crowds about greed. Seems one man wanted his brother to give him more of the family inheritance. When he finished speaking, the crowds left.

Jesus turned to we disciples and said, "Spending your time worrying about what you will eat or what you will wear is not worth your time. Life is so much more than what food you will eat. Your bodies are much more than what clothes you will wear. 

Jesus looked up at some birds. "Consider the ravens. They don't sow or reap. They have no storeroom or barn to keep their food. Yet God feeds them. You are much more valuable than birds! Who of you can add a single hour to your life by worrying about anything? Since you can't add even a simple hour to your life this way, why worry?

Lily Photo Courtesy

Think about the lily and how it grows. It does not work yet it grows freely and is beautiful in the fields. Not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these flowers. If God clothes the grass of the field with such beautiful flowers which is only here today and tomorrow thrown into the fire, how much more with God clothe you who trust Him? If only you had faith.

"Don't set your heart on what you will eat or drink. Don't worry about which cut of meat, or the finest cheese, or the best vegetables. Those who worship idols run after these things. Your Father knows what you need before you ask Him. Choose to seek his kingdom. When you do, all these things will be given to you as well.

"So, don't be afraid. Your Father wants to give you the kingdom. Sell your possessions and give to the poor. Make purses and wallets for yourselves that will not wear out. A treasure in heaven that will not be exhausted and is kept where no thief will come near and no moth will destroy. 

"Remember, where your treasure is, there your heart will be also."


I will share more of what Jesus taught next time.

 Come back to read the next story.

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sources: 
*A Harmony of the Gospels for Historical Study, An Analytical Synopsis of the Four Gospels by William Arnold Stevens and Ernest DeWitt Burton, Charles Scribner's Sons, New York 1932
*New International Version, New King James Version. 
*My Bible College training.
*My notes and walk through classes I've taught in Children's church. Answers to student questions, etc.
*Pastoral sermons on this time
*Matthew Henry Commentary
*F. LaGard Smith Commentary
*My notes from my trip to Israel.
*Photos from my trip to Israel.