CONNECTING POINT: Bickering Brothers

One of the well-known phrases of Jesus, “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” (Luke 12:34), is both powerful and thought-provoking. However, the context is even more revealing if we take the time to understand Christ’s statement. This teaching was sparked by a question from a nearby listener, “Someone in the crowd said to him, ‘Teacher, tell my brother to divide the inheritance with me.’ Jesus replied, ‘Man, who appointed me a judge or an arbiter between you?’ Then he said to them, ‘Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist in an

abundance of possessions.’” (Luke 12:13-15).

Here we have a scenario that has long been part of human history; family members disputing an inheritance. Such dynamics have decimated relationships and all over what? Material possessions that rust or disappear have little to no eternal value. Here are some valid considerations from the text.

One: We should practice reconciliation and refrain from bickering over money or material things. Christ’s response to the one brother’s question is mixed with a parable and a reality check found at the end of the chapter. “Why don’t you judge for yourselves what is right? As you are going with your adversary to the magistrate, try hard to be reconciled on the way, or your adversary may drag you

off to the judge, and the judge turn you over to the officer, and the officer throw you into prison. I tell you, you will not get out until you have paid the last penny.” (Luke 12:57-59). If siblings do not seek healthy, meaningful reconciliation regarding inheritance the likelihood of the matter becoming a lose-lose situation is very probable.

Furthermore, there is something to say when parents establish a clear will, but that doesn’t always guarantee a smooth outcome. It’s a matter of each heart involved in what is treasured most.

Two: Develop proper values in life that line with Scripture. Which is more treasured, your relationships or your things? To this point, Jesus utilized the parable of the rich fool, not a life philosophy to aim towards, if you know what I mean? David Guzik writes, “The man was a fool — not because he was rich, but because he lived without any awareness of and preparation for eternity.” In the Bible, an English word can often be transcribed from various Greek words depending on the context; some Greek terms have weightier

meanings. Greek moros means “stupid” and Jesus warned listeners to refrain from using that term when speaking about others.

However, Greek aphron means “insane one” which is fool in this context. Christ’s warning is to stay clear of covetousness or

self-centered behavior. The brother demanding Jesus’s intervention needed to heed Christ’s advice.

Three: Worry zaps more energy from us than the energy it takes to trust God. Jesus took the opportunity to provide guidance as it

relates to His disciples. We are included in this company. “Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to your life? Since you

cannot do this very little thing, why do you worry about the rest?” (Luke 12:26). I have never had positive experiences with worry. How about you? We lose sleep, and develop headaches, anxiety, and more; nothing good comes from worry.

Reflecting on Jesus’ phrase about the heart, another Biblical principle to keep in mind is that what we treasure most will be reflected in our priorities. Let’s prioritize relationships over possessions. Let’s hold tightly to people and maintain a loose grip on things.