A Rich Fool

Luke 12

Hey, Teacher!" called a man in the crowd. "Make my brother split his inheritance with me!"

"Why should I be the judge for you and your brother?" asked Jesus.

"But be careful, and watch out for greed. Because having lots of things won't give you a good life." And then He told a story.

"There once was a farmer. And one year he harvested an huge crop of grain—his best ever! He was so excited. 'What shall I do now?' he wondered. 'Where shall I store my valuable grain?'

"Then this farmer said, 'I know what I'll do. First I'll tear down my old barns; then I'll build new, bigger, and better ones! Then I'll have lots of room to store my grain and all the terrific things I'll buy with my money!' And so he did this. Then he said to himself, 'Now, I can take it easy—I'll just eat, drink, and be merry!' But God said to him, `Foolish, foolish man, this very night your life on earth is over. And now what will come of all your worldly riches?'

"And this is what happens," explained Jesus, "to those who only think of getting earthly riches, but are poor when it comes to knowing God."