Israel in Jesus’ day (like most countries today) had a few extremely rich people, and lots who were very poor. Jesus’ message in today’s reading was clear, and it was controversial. Jesus challenged the values of the religious leaders who were among the rich, saying it is impossible to serve God and wealth. Those who saw all their wealth as a sign of God’s favor sneered. Jesus replied, “What is highly valued by people is deeply offensive to God.”

• Scholar N.T. Wright wrote of this passage, “Money is not a possession, it’s a trust: God entrusts property to people and expects it to be used to his glory and the welfare of his children, not for private glory or glamour.” The Message said the religious leaders thought Jesus was “hopelessly out of touch.” Does Jesus’ teaching about worldly wealth and true riches seem “out of touch” to you? Does it challenge you? Does it inspire you?
• Jesus didn’t say we “shouldn’t” serve both God and money; he said we “cannot” do that. Our hearts can only have one ultimate master. The Greek word translated “money” meant all types of material goods. When you face ethical choices or career decisions, what determines your course: God’s values, or the material and social payoffs you expect?