Gospel: Luke 12:13-21
“A person’s life does not consist of an abundance of possessions.” (Luke 12:15)
Recently I watched a movie called Stand Strong, the fictional story of the Webster family who measured success by the quantity of their possessions. In their upper middle-class lifestyle, they had everything – a palatial home, expensive cars, an RV, recreational vehicles and even a boat. Careless and unbridled spending ultimately led to their being stripped of all these trappings. Mounting debt led to foreclosure on their home and the need to sell their possessions. Homelessness forced them to move in with relatives whose family-centered and Christ-centered lifestyle demonstrated simplicity and trust in God and a willingness to freely share their possessions. Gradually, the Websters were “converted.” In rebuilding their lives, they focused on what was essential: family, simplicity in living and Christ-centered decision making.
How much is too much? Today’s Gospel account somewhat parallels the Websters. A man has amassed a great amount of wealth. Rather than sharing some of it with those in need, he chooses instead to build larger storage facilities for his possessions. Many saints have asserted that our abundance belongs to the poor and needy. Saint Francis of Assisi compared excess wealth to fertilizer, which encourages growth when spread around. Jesus is not asking us to give away everything and become destitute. However, Jesus is asking that we use our excess possessions and money generously and wisely to assist the poor so that we may build up treasure in heaven.
God Bless!
Sister Marcella Louise Wallowicz, CSFN
