Reflections on Life, Plans, and Trust: Insights from James and Jesus
May 22, 2024 - Wednesday of the Seventh Week in Ordinary Time
James 4:13-17
Moses Maimonides (1138–1204) is considered one of the greatest Jewish Rabbis and philosophers. He had a younger brother, David, who grew up with him. After the initial success of Moses, the entire family, "hoping to increase their wealth," gave their savings to David, who unfortunately drowned in the Indian Ocean. David left behind his wife, a daughter, and a heartbroken older brother (see Wikipedia, Maimonides).
In today's first reading, James quotes ancient merchants making their business plans: "Today or tomorrow we shall go into such and such a town, spend a year there doing business, and make a profit" (James 4:13). The apostle seems upset by this statement. What irritates him is the lack of consideration for God. How sure could they be to live until next year?
James' statement, "you have no idea what your life will be like tomorrow" (James 4:14), reminds me of one of Jesus' parables told as a warning against greed and a materialistic approach to life. The parable is about a man who got an abundant harvest that far exceeded his storage capacities. It was like winning a lottery ticket, and I think that many of us would be delighted to see our business succeed in such a way. Perhaps some would see it as a reward for their hard work or as God's blessing. Like the man from the parable, we would begin to make plans for the future. Having so much money in our hands, we could finally do what we always dreamed of doing.
The parable that I am referring to is known as the Parable of the Rich Fool. It is preceded by Jesus' statement that "life does not consist in an abundance of possessions" (Luke 12:15) and ends with a reminder that death comes at the least expected moment. James reminds his readers of the same truth. We can plan, but we have no assurance that our plans will come to fruition. Moreover, we are mortal creatures, and accidents happen (see James 4:14).
If life does not consist of an abundance of possessions, what does it consist of? If we cannot be sure whether our plans can be realized, what should we do then? The "life" that Jesus talks about cannot be bought with money. Jesus uses the Greek word "Zoe" here, which can be defined as a "real life" that only He can give. James tells us to humble ourselves before God and live by the wise saying of the Book of Proverbs: "Many are the plans in a person's heart, but it is the Lord's purpose that prevails" (Prov. 19:21). And so, the apostle teaches us a very practical and powerful prayer: Lord, if it is Your will, "we shall live to do this or that" (see James 4:15).
In the merchants' plans of setting up their business in a certain town and spending there a year or so to make a profit, James sees an arrogant attitude that often precedes our fall. The solution lies in putting our trust in God and being generous to those in need.