Can a rich man get into heaven? Is it really as difficult as a camel getting through the eye of a needle? The age old religious views divided heaven and earth, body and soul disparaging the human body with the things of “earth” leading to spiritual ruin. Poverty was considered a virtue. In the convent poverty is one of the vows that religious nuns take thinking without the distractions of the “world” with material goods that they are more open to heavenly goods.
The elevated theme of poverty ran down through the years. Remember the shameful symbols of materialism in the 1960’s with the hippie generation apologizing for new cars and nice clothes. In the past, deprivation of material goods has been deemed as an “advantage” on the spiritual path.
Today, spiritual seekers have shifted their thinking away from seeing poverty as an essential spiritual practice to realize that we live in the world and not in isolation. Yes, you can enjoy the “wealth” of the material world without jeopardizing your “eternal reward”.
Upon the completion of the beautiful Immaculata Church at the University of San Diego, the Catholic Church was dragged through the press as being extravagant in their expenditures in the building and decor of the church. I recall the bishop of the dioceses at the time, had to answer to the people for a seemingly excessive church.
I’ve never forgotten his answer that shut everyone up and explain a spiritual truth. He explained: Whenever you look at the church and it’s extravagance, remember God’s love for you is just like that: “over the top”, and “way out of line” for what we deserve. Let the church be a reminder of God’s excessive love for each of us.
Here’s to your health, wealth, and happiness, Patty
