Wealth is not the Problem

We live in the richest nation in the world. The poorest of the poor in America are still ‘better off’ financially than in any other nation. Thousands per day are risking their lives just come for a chance at a better life. Unfortunately, they think money will cure what causes their suffering. Money might help but is isn’t the problem.

Today the Church commemorates the memory of Saint Severian who was killed ‘just because’ he encouraged the Martyrs of Sebastia in their torment. He was a wealthy man of deep faith. He didn’t see his wealth as his comfort. Instead, he turned to the Lord for comfort and meaning in life. When he was killed, he lost his wealth but gained his eternal life. Money wasn’t his problem. It wasn’t even his cure.

There are many contemporary examples of people of extreme wealth living their faith with piety. They use their wealth to glorify God. Many times, He gives them even more wealth. (see Matthew 25.29) When we use the wealth that God has blessed us with to glorify Him, it isn’t really the wealth that is working. Our love is working.

Wealth without love is just numbers on paper. Love reaches out with or without wealth. Saint Severian could just as easily have encouraged the martyrs if he was poor. In fact, I suspect he would have done just that. Wealth doesn’t create our character. Wealth accentuates our character.

Test your character this week. Consider how the Lord has blessed you financially and use that blessing to glorify Him. Maybe there is a family that needs assistance. Saint Basil hid money in bread to help others. You don’t need to ‘fly a big banner’ taking credit for what you do. Just do it. That will also be a test of your character.

The weekend is upon us, and you should be making plans to attend Divine Liturgy this weekend. Calculate your weekly income and write a tithe (10%) check to the Church for your stewardship. It is a test of your character, willing to separate yourself from your wealth, either in Church or for others.

Then recall what the Lord said about the man who buried the talents (money) he had received from the master. “You wicked and lazy servant, you knew that I reap where I have not sown, and gather where I have not scattered seed.” (Matthew 25.26) The lazy servant was cast into the darkness. Money wasn’t the problem. It was his heart.