The Parable of the Lily
Currier & Ives, 1866
My dear friends,
In our journey through life, we often find ourselves lost amidst the overwhelming chaos of worldly desires, like a rich man who continues to be possessed by concern for his material wealth, even though he already has plenty. However, as the parable of the Rich Fool has reminded us, the temporal nature of life makes it crucial to reflect on what truly brings meaning and purpose to our existence:
'You fool! This very night
your life is being demanded of you.
And the things you have accumulated,
whose will they be?'
So it is with those
who store up treasures for themselves
but are not rich toward God."
- Luke 12:20-21
"Therefore I tell you,
do not worry about your life, what you will eat,
or about your body, what you will wear.
For life is more than food,
and the body more than clothing."
- Luke 12:22-23
The essence of life, my friends, is not in the food we eat or the clothes we wear. Instead, it lies in the experiences we embrace, the compassion we extend, and the love we spread.
they have neither storehouse nor barn, and yet God feeds them.
Of how much more value are you than the birds!
And can any of you by worrying add a single hour to your span of life?
If then you are not able to do so small a thing as that,
why do you worry about the rest?
Consider the lilies, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin;
yet I tell you, even Solomon in all his glory was not clothed like one of these.
But if God so clothes the grass of the field,
which is alive today and tomorrow is thrown into the oven,
how much more will he clothe you — you of little faith!"
- Luke 12:24-28
When Jesus says "O ye of little faith!", it is not just a comment on a lack of trust in divine providence. It reflects the deeper tragedy of our misplaced faith: faith in impermanent things that can never deliver lasting happiness or meaning. In the grand scheme of existence, our worries about material well-being are fleeting and inconsequential. By placing undue importance on them, we remain entrapped in a cycle of anxiety, dissatisfaction, and unfulfillment.
By focusing solely on worldly concerns, we fail to achieve our full human potential. In contrast, animals, in their natural state, inherently achieve their fullest potential. They live in harmony with their environment, fulfill their roles in the ecosystem, and do not suffer from existential crises. On the other hand, humans, despite their advanced cognitive abilities, often remain unfulfilled, anxious, and lost. The potential to realize our higher selves, to connect with the divine, and to contribute to the world in meaningful ways often remains untapped.
For it is the nations of the world that strive after all these things,
and your Father knows that you need them.
Instead, strive for his kingdom, and these things will be given to you as well."
- Luke 12:29-31
The quest for external treasures - be it in the form of wealth, power, or fame - is fleeting. As Jesus wisely suggests, it is far more fruitful to search for the kingdom within, for in that quest lies true richness and peace. In Buddhist terms, it is the pursuit of enlightenment, of understanding our true nature, and realizing the interconnectedness of all life.
Sell your possessions, and give alms.
Make purses for yourselves that do not wear out, an unfailing treasure in heaven,
where no thief comes near and no moth destroys."
- Luke 12:32-33
The call to sell possessions and give alms is not just about literal action. It is a symbolic act of surrendering our attachments to worldly concerns, developing generosity, and creating positive karma. For in giving, we receive, and in surrendering, we find freedom.
- Luke 12:34
This is a universal truth across religions and beliefs: that our outer world reflects our inner state. If we value compassion, love, and understanding, we cultivate a world imbued with these qualities.
The message from Luke 12:22-34 is not just a Christian teaching but a universal call to self-reflection, contentment, and understanding the true nature of existence. It is an invitation to all, regardless of faith or belief, to recognize the impermanence of life and the importance of cherishing every moment with love, compassion, and gratitude.
May you find your treasure in the kingdom of inner peace and happiness.