The Joker War

A good name is to be chosen rather than great riches,
    and favor is better than silver or gold. Proverbs 22:1

The Joker War is one of Batman’s wildest story arcs. Bruce Wayne loses his business to Joker, the homicidal clown who never seems to stay in jail. The Joker has ultimate power, resources, and money in Gotham. He plans to kill every citizen in the city the same way Bruce lost his parents, trapping them in a movie theater and executing them. Without money and gadgets, Batman calls out to his Bat Family to take back the city. Robin, Nightwing, Signal, Spoiler, Batgirl, Batwoman, and Red Hood fight the Joker’s army and save the day.

The book of Proverbs is a reflective book that exposes the excitement and fluff of the celebrity life. While the world is clamoring for riches, temporary pleasures, and fame, the small voice of wisdom invites us to be upstanding citizens in our community. Here are a few reasons why scripture values your character over your wallet.

  • Money makes people “love” you in exchange for helping them out. A good name brings the right people to work with you.
  • Money can prepare you for emergencies and special projects, while a good name gives you a network of people to rely on.
  • Money is good for survival. A good name is better for daily living.
  • People with money get lonely. People with a good name.

Abraham inherited wealth from God, but his faithfulness to God gave him great ethics and stature in the community. Joseph was the richest Hebrew in Egypt, but the people knew him for his generosity and kindness. Solomon chose wisdom over riches, and God gave him great leadership and problem-solving skills (along with tons of wealth).

In the story of the rich man, Jesus meets a young entrepreneur who wants to join the “going to heaven” trend. Jesus tells him to sell all his earthly goods and follow him. This is a dealbreaker for the young man, and he walks away. In his world, cash can buy anything, but in this instance, money keeps him from seeing the truth.

Whether your wallet has nickels or thousands of dollars, I pray a faithful, loving, and righteous name is your greatest treasure.

Figure it out:

17 As Jesus was starting out on his way to Jerusalem, a man came running up to him, knelt down, and asked, “Good Teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?”

18 “Why do you call me good?” Jesus asked. “Only God is truly good. 19 But to answer your question, you know the commandments: ‘You must not murder. You must not commit adultery. You must not steal. You must not testify falsely. You must not cheat anyone. Honor your father and mother.’[a]”

20 “Teacher,” the man replied, “I’ve obeyed all these commandments since I was young.”

21 Looking at the man, Jesus felt genuine love for him. “There is still one thing you haven’t done,” he told him. “Go and sell all your possessions and give the money to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.”
Mark 10:17-21
1. Circle all the words, phrases, and ideas that stood out to you.
2. What is God’ purpose in this text?
3. What is our purpose in this text?
4. What part of this scripture do you want to reflect on or bring into your faith?