Today’s readings speak directly to the heart of our modern lives—especially in a world where success is often measured by possessions, productivity, and prestige.

In the Gospel from Luke (12:13–21), Jesus tells the Parable of the Rich Fool. It’s a sharp reminder of how easy it is to accumulate wealth but neglect the soul. The rich man plans to build bigger barns to store his goods, imagining a future of comfort. But God says to him, “You fool, this night your life will be demanded of you.” All that he prepared would be left behind.

This Gospel is not a condemnation of wealth or planning, but a warning against the illusion of self-sufficiency. Jesus wants us to ask: Am I rich in what matters to God?

The First Reading from Ecclesiastes reminds us of the fleeting nature of earthly toil: “Vanity of vanities! All things are vanity!” Without God, even our greatest efforts can feel hollow.

St. Paul, in the Second Reading from Colossians, offers the remedy: “Seek what is above… Think of what is above, not of what is on earth.” He calls us to put to death the old self, marked by greed and earthly attachments, and to clothe ourselves in the new self—renewed in the image of Christ.

These readings invite us into a spiritual inventory. Are we building up barns or building up the kingdom? Are we so busy storing “stuff” that we’ve neglected the treasures of mercy, prayer, faith, and love?

In a world that encourages us to have more, Jesus gently calls us to be more—more open, more grateful, more generous, and more focused on the life that truly lasts.

Reflection Questions for the Week:

1. Where in my life am I tempted to place security in material things?

2. What might Jesus be asking me to “let go of” to grow richer in what matters to God?

3. How can I be more intentional in seeking what is “above” in my daily life?

4. Have I been too busy building up “barns” and neglecting my soul?

5. What does it mean to be “rich in what matters to God” for me personally?

Prayer for the Week:
Lord, help me to see my life through Your eyes. Teach me to seek what is eternal rather than what fades. When I’m tempted to hold on tightly to things that do not last, draw me back to You. May I grow in faith, hope, and love—and be rich in the treasures of heaven. Amen.

In Christ,