I’ve been thinking a lot about money lately, especially because I’m planning a big pilgrimage with my son and mother this summer. To be honest, the money is not entirely there. Many would say I shouldn’t go. But really, when I look at the vast majority of people in this world, I realize that I’m truly rich. Sure, I may be living paycheck to paycheck. I may have a little credit card debt. But I have a house. I have a college degree. I have a job that I love that I’ve had for 14 years and that I know I will continue to have for another 14 years if I choose to work hard and keep up with my education. I have a 403b. I have a college plan for my son. So even though I don’t feel rich, I know I really am. What could possibly stop me from going?
Well, there are so many things I can buy with the money I would use to go to Medjugorje: A more fuel-efficient car, a big wedding (eventually lol), new appliances for my aging kitchen, cute shoes. But none of that will give me what Medjugorje will give me—peace, a closeness to Heaven, a place of contemplation and meditation, a community of believers, a place to just say “Thank you” to the Lord of Heaven and earth. That is more than I can ask for in a lifetime.
We must be watchful of the needs of the flesh. St. Paul says in his first letter to Timothy, “But those who desire to be rich fall into temptation, into a snare, into many senseless and harmful desires that plunge people into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evils. It is through this craving that some have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many pangs” 1 Timothy 6: 9-10. I do not want to lose my faith on account of my greed; however, it’s difficult in this society to not be greedy. Everyone wants to “Keep up with the Jones’s.” I would like a bigger house, a nicer car, and newer shoes and clothes. But is it really worth it? Heck no. God has been able to provide for me through my talents with a good and loving home for me and for my son. I want to use those talents, my time, and my treasure to give back to Him. Pope Francis recently spoke about greed and waste. He said, “Our grandparents used to make a point of not throwing away leftover food. Consumerism has made us accustomed to wasting food daily and we are unable to see its real value. Throwing away food is like stealing from the table of those who are poor and hungry.” How true. I think about how much food I throw away on a daily basis and it disgusts and saddens me. I don’t appreciate what I have enough let alone be responsible for more. We are all accountable for what we receive.
So yes, I’m going on a pilgrimage to Medjugorje to say thank you for all I have. And starting now, I will be giving even more of my talent, time, and treasure to my Church. It’s my home, my love, my lifeline to God. I encourage anyone reading this to do the same. You will be rewarded in ways you can’t even imagine. Thank you Lord for all You’ve given to me. I will use Your gifts more responsibly in the future. Please bless me and those around me with more of Your graces and Your gifts so we can put them to use for You and Your Kingdom. Amen.
"The one will LIFT up his companion." 