Writing in the early 20th century, Tolkien saw the growing Industrialization and materialism of Europe and America as a corrupting influence in Western Culture. And his stories serve as cautionary tales. Much like the Gospels.
Today we hear of the man who hoards, who stores up more and more for himself that he may “eat, drink, and be merry” without a care in the world. Yet, at the time of his judgment, God calls him a fool, for neglecting his spiritual duties for the sake of his earthly well-being.
As Christians called to live “in the world, but not of the world” our relationship with the material goods of the earth is delicate. We must certainly provide for our own basic needs, the needs of our family, and help our neighbor as we can, but we must also not allow the pursuit of creature comforts, luxuries, or worry about the future preoccupy us.
Fr. Klasinski has reminded us often that there is nothing wrong with having possessions, as long as our possessions do not begin to possess us. Our possessions can begin to have a demonic influence in our life, when used improperly, instead of being used properly and bringing us closer to God, they are used improperly and lead us away from God.
I think of another literary character who speaks of his alcoholic father. He says that every time father would take a drink from the bottle, it was as if the bottle were taking a drink out of him. Greed, the improper use of material things, is rather vampiric. As we thirst for more and more things, we become less and less human.
Rather, we are called to a proper stewardship of the goods of the earth, appropriating property for our needs, those of our family, and the care for the poor. But always keeping in mind that the excessive accumulation of earthly goods can lead us to be very poor in the riches of heaven.
The Saints, like St. John Capestrano, teach us what being rich in spiritual things looks like, how to order our lives rightly, and to remove the filth and corruption of greed and vice.
As we draw near to the table of the Lord today, may we do so with gratitude for the blessings which fill our lives, with the desire to be good stewards of earthly goods, to right the wrongs in our life, and to seek first the kingdom of heaven for the glory of God and salvation of souls.
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That we Christian stewards may continue to grow in gratitude to God for all that we have received, and use our time, talent, and treasure for the good of all.
That all those who take part in political and social life will promote evangelization, will work for the true common good, defend religious liberty, and protect the unborn and innocent. We pray to the Lord.
For Pope Francis’ prayer intention for the month of October: That all workers may receive respect and protection of their rights, and that the unemployed may receive the opportunity to contribute to the common good.
For all those struggling with addiction, mental illness, chronic sickness, unemployment, or ongoing trials of any kind: that they will be fortified and blessed with God’s special love, favor, and peace. We pray to the Lord.
For the deceased members of our families, friends, and parish, and all the poor souls in purgatory, for deceased clergy and religious, and for those who have fought and died for our freedom.
O God, you know that our life in this present age is subject to suffering and need, hear the prayers of those who cry to you and receive the prayers of those who believe in you. Through Christ our Lord.
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