Jeremiah 25:7-14
In this instance "Work of hands" refers to made idols, but can we see a question here of the worth we give the things we make over that of the one who gives them to us? To whom do we credit our productivity? Our successes? Our earnings? The sound of the mill is noted as a 'joyful sound' to the same degree as marriage festivities. This is not just a necessary 'grind' but a sign of prosperity and hope for the future as are the union of people and promise of children represented in marriage.
Micah 1:6-7
Harlotry associated with infidelity. Does the manner in which 'wages' are earned somehow give characteristics to them? Does dishonest or immoral gain somehow hold the manner in which it was obtained?
John12:4-6
Did Jesus know Judas was a thief (assuming he actually was)? If so, why allow him to continue in a position of trust? Is there a possible link with the trust of workmen in 2 Kings 22?
The value of the perfume is recognised as having a value beyond its economic wealth. How can we learn to see things from a non-financial perspective in a culture that is primarily concerned with monetary value?
Revelation 6:5-6
One of the woes of the apocalypse, typically interpreted as famine (weighing scales a sign of rationed food). A denarius a typical wage for one day, here is enough to buy a quart of wheat (enough for a day's food) or three of barley (enough to feed a family for a day). Literally living hand to mouth, a day's work for a day's food. Necessitates either omission of sabbath or a day's fasting and ensures work is a means of continuance, not prosperity. The abundance of wine and oil, good for the wealthy and those whose livelihood is the trade of such commodities, is irrelevant to the poor who have nothing leftover after buying staples.
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