Reasons for Rich Mans Foolishness

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season:  Twenty Ninth Week : Monday*

*Gospel :  Luke 12:13-21*

*First Reading : Rom 4:20-25*

*Responsorial Psalm : Luke 1:69-75*

*Reasons for Rich Mans Foolishness*

*1) Foolishness of Trusting in Possessions*

The man is called a fool because he placed his security in material wealth instead of in God.

He believed his life could be secured by bigger barns and greater savings.

But possessions cannot guarantee peace, joy, or eternal life.

He forgot Psalm 49:16–17 *“Do not be overawed when others grow rich... for they will take nothing with them when they die.”*

Many today also measure success by wealth, career, or property — but Jesus reminds us that spiritual poverty, not material abundance, is the true danger.

*2) Foolishness of Forgetting God*

Nowhere in his thoughts does the man mention God, gratitude, or generosity.

He keeps saying, “my crops, my barns, my goods, my soul.”

His life revolves around himself — a self-centered world without reference to the Creator.

When we forget the Giver and focus only on the gifts, we lose sight of the purpose of life. True wisdom begins with “the fear of the Lord” (Proverbs 9:10).

*3) Foolishness of Ignoring Mortality*

The rich man thought he had many years to enjoy his wealth, but God reminds him that life is uncertain.

“This very night your life will be demanded of you.” He lived as if he were immortal — a great illusion of the proud heart.

We are only stewards of the time and resources given to us.

Each day is a gift; tomorrow is not guaranteed.

Wise people live with eternity in view.

*4) Foolishness of Failing to Love Others*

The man never thinks of sharing his harvest with the poor or those in need.

He enlarges barns instead of opening his heart. His riches became walls, not bridges.

Jesus calls us to be “rich toward God” (v. 21) — by showing mercy, charity, and love. Our true treasure is not stored in barns but in heaven (Matthew 6:19–21).

*5) The True Wisdom Jesus Teaches*

Jesus contrasts the “fool” with the wise person who:

Trusts in God’s providence, not in wealth.

Uses possessions to serve others.

Lives in gratitude and readiness for eternity.

The rich fool reminds us that wealth without God is poverty of the soul.

True wisdom is to live each day aware that everything we have belongs to God and is meant for His glory and our neighbor’s good.

*6) Final Thought*

Jesus calls the man fool not to insult him, but to awaken us.

It is foolish to live as if we control life, as if possessions define our worth, or as if God does not exist. The parable ends with a solemn warning:

“So it is with those who store up treasures for themselves but are not rich toward God.” (Luke 12:21)

*Think about it*

*God bless you and your family. Praying for you and your ones*

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*