“Jesus said to them, ‘Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed’” (Lk.12:15)
Jesus, the Scriptures are filled with warnings, images, and stories about mishandled desires, good longings getting hijacked by selfishness, and the emptiness of living a restless, driven life. You “nailed” this issue and “upped the ante” when you gave us the warning about guarding against “ALL kinds of greed.” When we think of greed, we usually think of it as a money issue. It’s not; it’s a heart issue.
For there are as many “currencies” for which we can be greedy as there are vacuums, holes, and wounds in our hearts. Jesus, when knowing you isn’t “enough”—when I’m not content with you and whatever you choose to give me, I can crave all kinds of “stuff” and scenarios. I can “love to be first” like Diotrephes (3Jn.1:9)—first in line, first to be appreciated, first at my favorite fishing spot, first off the plane … first, first, first.
Other times I fantasize about having the flexibility of a yoga master, the memory of an elephant, the eyesight of an eagle—so I can more easily tie flies on my fly-fishing leader. Sometimes I over-want to be right, Hugh Grant’s hairline, conflict-free relationships, and the metabolism of a French Alps cyclist so I can eat all I want and not gain an ounce.
In some seasons and stretches—I’m “greedy” not to get, but to get rid of heart-hurt, unrealistic expectations, and any president that doesn’t make me happy. I am a mess, but (hallelujah) I am your mess.
Jesus—more, and more so than ever, be my heart-treasure, my utter satisfaction and “portion,” my contentment, inheritance, and joy. Only your love is better than life. Only you are enough. So Very Amen.