Reflections on God and Possessions
My needs have always been met. I have never known hunger or cold. There has always been a roof over my head. Considering the recent wildfires in California, I have been thinking about what happens when a human’s most basic needs are not met. In America, we have a capitalist society, where every man and woman are for themselves in a rat race to the corporate top ladder. Money and possessions are highly valued. Americans are taught to crave a bigger house, a fancier car, and the latest smart phone technology. The focus is not only on having enough to survive, but on one-upping your neighbor. But, what does Jesus say we need? He emphasizes spiritual wholeness, and a closeness with the earth and our creator. Jesus, himself, was poor, and advised His followers to give up their possessions and follow Him. Jesus says that we cannot love God and money (Luke 16:13 and Matthew 6:24). So, after seeing the devastation in California over the last few days, I asked myself, what would I grieve the loss of most, my “things” or my memories? I am ashamed to say that I might be tempted to grieve the loss of the stuff I had collected the most.
Time for a little self-reflection. I grew up middle-class in the USA, and with all the privileges of being white. It was not until I was an adult that I first experienced having little money. I have lived on disability and food stamps for most of my adult life, and have had to watch every penny closely. Running out of food at the end of the month has become a reality, as well as swallowing my pride and occasionally asking for extra help. However, as I said, God is Good, and I have always somehow made ends meet. It has not been an easy task. The surprising fact is, that I would not have it any other way. Being poor keeps me honest in a way that I have never experienced before. My empathy and respect for others has grown and my own faith journey has been richer. Joy has been palpable in the simple pleasures, such as a walk in the woods, or a warm cup of tea. Community with others in church or through friendships sparks my passion more than being by myself in a fancy apartment would accomplish. However, with all that said, I still feel myself vulnerable to the temptations to enjoy collecting, “stuff,” in my case mostly books and music. I crave the latest Taylor Swift CD, even though I cannot afford it, and feel sorry for myself that the extra funds are not there.
It is time for a reality check. My complaints are the needs of a first-world spoiled American. I want fancier clothes, I want newer CD’s, I want higher quality chocolate. Hello, wake-up call, I have all I need and more!!! My sweet apartment is full of lovely times spent with family and friends, and I am warm, safe, and fed. There are many in the world, and presently in our own country, who cannot say the same. It is time to dig into scripture and recall the words of Jesus, “you cannot love God and money.” I have been given free-will, what do I choose to love today? Do I love my Father God, or the phone app that I want? God gives us the option; it is time to consider the answer. We as Christians are called to serve those less fortunate, let us decide to act now and help our neighbors. To whom much is given, much is required. I have been given much.
If you would like to help the California rescue efforts, World Central Kitchen is serving hot meals:
The Ladybug 