Material Spiritual and Gospel of Wealth

The Roman Catholic Lectionary today brings the question of our relationship with wealth and possessions to mind. We are beginning today in the excellent apartment we have rented in the area of the Archbasilica of St John Lateran on the feast day of Saint Philip Neri patron of Rome. This 16th century saint was known for using physical action to teach humility. One challenge of living with wealth is to avoid the assessment that wealth is equated with being a better person or one more favoured by God. The text from Sirah today and some parts of American spiritual history may indicate our expectation that God will return wealth to us in exchange for our giving to Him. The Gospel today from Mark may have that same impact on us if we do not search out how the brothers, sisters and homes promised by Jesus actually come to us through the communities to which we are drawn. Mike Cherney identifies how we are too often distracted by acquisition and maintenance of material wealth. My reaction yesterday upon entry to the Archbasilica of St. John Lateran was one of being completely overwhelmed. My breath was taken away by the physical presence of the interior of the church which is the seat of the Bishop of Rome. The celebration of the glory of God through the centuries and the gifts and consequent recognition of princes of the world and the Church has build many structures which serve both purposes extremely well. The actions of Philip Neri to change direction in the lives of people he encountered also resonates with the themes in these magnificent churchs. Salvation history in art and archetecture speaks to those who do not have access to texts. It illuminates understanding of God for those who relate the images to the texts. Human nature in relationship to God is shown in the depth of personal prayerful action given to the creation of these masterpieces and the desire of those who give their time treasure and talent to receive something in return.