Scripture:
Reflection:
Dare we compare the ‘molten calf’ of Moses’ time and today’s rampant materialism? Have we allowed ourselves to be ensnared in a culture where material possessions are deified, perhaps even worshipped? Could our devotion to material wealth, even subconscious devotion, have eclipsed our reverence for higher values? Has the pursuit of a kingdom possibly resembling Gordon Gekko’s overshadowed the importance of God’s Kingdom in our lives?
During Lent, we are called to rekindle our dedication to almsgiving. Almsgiving serves as a delightful departure from hoarding wealth, contrasting 180 degrees with the tendencies of unbridled materialism. It elevates the importance of connections and experiences over mere possessions. Rather than exerting control over others to safeguard our riches, almsgiving empowers others through support and aid. It steers us away from superficial joys tied to belongings, guiding us towards a more profound sense of fulfillment and authentic happiness as we choose to share our time and resources.
The avenues for almsgiving are plentiful and diverse. We can opt for home-cooked meals over dining out, curtail unused app subscriptions, and prioritize meeting others’ essential needs before indulging in self-fulfillment pursuits. By nurturing others with compassion, optimism, and dignity, we counteract the temptation to overspend on how we “look” in favor of genuine human connections.
Let us ask ourselves: Has a fixation on material wealth today, akin to Moses’ ‘molten calf,’ been overshadowing our reverence for God’s kingdom? If even slightly so, what steps can we take to realign our priorities toward values that truly matter?
Jack Dermody is the editor of the CrossRoads bulletin for the Passionist Alumni Association and a member of the Migration Commission for Holy Cross Province. He lives in Glendale, Arizona.