James 5:1-6 / Mark 9:41-50
To be rich and wealthy is not morally wrong nor is it something to be frowned upon.
In fact, in the Old Testament, to be reasonably rich is considered a blessing from God.
Certainly, to become rich by honest means can be seen as an example of integrity and character.
But the 1st reading points out an issue about the rich and wealthy.
They have committed an injustice against the poor and the lowly.
The reading says: Labourers mowed your fields, and you cheated them – listen to the wages that you kept back, calling out. Realise that the cries of the reapers have reached the ears of the Lord of hosts.
It goes without saying that ill-gotten gains will be accounted for.
The 1st reading goes on to say this: All your gold and silver are corroding away, and the same corrosion will be your own sentence , and eat into your body. It is a burning fire that you stored up as your treasure for the last days.
The Word of God reminds us to live honest and upright lives, to have integrity of life and charity to the needy.
That cup of water is a symbol of our duty and obligation to the poor and needy.
In sharing our wealth and resources, Jesus tells us that God sees, God knows, and He will reward us in eternity.