REVERSAL OF THE FUTURE
Jesus often spoke of a reversal of fortunes in the Kingdom of Heaven, highlighting this through several parables. He emphasized that “Many who are first will be last, and many who are last will be first” (Mt 19:30). This principle was illustrated in the following stories:
1. The Rich Man and Lazarus: In this parable, the poor and sick Lazarus is carried by angels to the bosom of Abraham after his death, while the rich man finds himself suffering in Hades (Lk 16:19-31). This reversal demonstrates that earthly wealth and status do not guarantee salvation.
2. The Prodigal Son: When the prodigal son returns in repentance, his father welcomes him with honor, while his older brother refuses to join the celebration (Lk 15:11-32). This story highlights that God’s mercy is available to all who humbly repent, regardless of their past actions.
3. The Pharisee and the Tax Collector: In this parable, a sinful tax collector goes home justified after praying in the Temple, while the self-righteous Pharisee does not (Lk 18:9-14). Jesus teaches that God exalts the humble and looks at the heart, not outward appearances.
Jesus further instructs his disciples, “The greatest among you must be your servant. Whoever exalts himself will be humbled; but whoever humbles himself will be exalted” (Mt 23:11-12). The apostle James echoes this sentiment: “Listen, my beloved brothers. Did not God choose those who are poor in the world to be rich in faith and heirs of the kingdom that he promised to those who love him?” (Jm 2:5).
These teachings reveal that God’s standards of righteousness differ significantly from human standards. While people often strive for wealth, status, and accomplishments in this world, Jesus calls his followers to use their time, talents, and resources to serve others and build up the Church. In doing so, God will reward them in heaven. As Jesus taught, “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and decay destroy, and thieves break in and steal. But store up treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor decay destroys, nor thieves break in and steal” (Mt 6:19-20).
REFLECTION
The parables and teachings of Jesus reveal an essential truth: the values of God’s Kingdom often reverse worldly values. The poor, humble, and repentant are exalted, while the rich, proud, and self-righteous are humbled. This understanding should shape how we, as Christians, view success and status.
Rather than pursuing power, wealth, and prestige, we are called to be servants to all. We should use our blessings to help the poor and needy, not to indulge ourselves. We must remain humble before God, trusting in His mercy rather than our own merits. And we should joyfully welcome all who come to God with repentant hearts, just as the father welcomed the prodigal son.
By living according to God’s upside-down values, we store up treasures in heaven that will never fade away. We bear witness to the transformative power of the Gospel, which reverses the fortunes of all who put their faith in Christ. May we have the courage to live out this radical message of the Kingdom, knowing that the last will be first and the first will be last in the eyes of our loving God.