Of all the New Testament writers St Luke is most concerned about what we do with our money. We saw this last week in the parable of the foolish landowner. Luke showed us that we will not only be judged on how we made our money but how we spent it as well. Luke speaks too often and passionately about wealth for it to be of only academic interest for him. His writing style reveals a costly education. He seems to have accompanied St Paul on one of his travels at his own expense. Both require private means.  He will write sympathetically of the rich man who would not follow Jesus because he was tied to his possessions and “went away very sad” (Lk 18:18-23) Luke is a rich young man who did give up his possessions and followed Jesus.  He has much to teach us, and it only begins with money.

St. Luke uses the stories of Jesus in uniquely effective ways. He employs many classical rhetorical techniques with very impressive technical names. But they are effective because they work very simply. His best is to lull us into a false sense of security and then zing us. We have seen this several times already. We feel immediate sympathy for the potential disciple who wishes to bury his father before following Jesus.  Yet Jesus seemingly coldheartedly tells them that his first responsibly is to follow him and let the dead bury the dead. (Luke 9:60) More recently Martha asked Jesus “Do you not care that my sister has left me to do all preparations” Jesus’ answer is basically that he really didn’t, and Martha should join Mary at his feet. We will see this today but with a twist. (Luke 10:38-42)