How We Live Charity in Truth

In this time of economic turmoil, we do well to reflect upon the need to grow rich. For those baptized in Christ, we are not meant to grow rich according to the standards of the world. Rather, we are to grow rich in the sight of God.

In order to do so, we must evaluate our priorities. Think about the time, money and effort we spend on our projects, hobbies, sports and leisure activities. Think about how work consumes us. Think about how the desire to succeed distracts us. How does this compare to the time and energy we are giving to God, to prayer and to the practice of your faith?

To grow rich in the sight of God, we must offer constant praise. We must be mindful of all the blessings that are ours each and every day; recognize God as the Source of them and give constant thanks. Take a moment and think about the many gifts you so often take for granted. Be ever mindful of the abundant blessings God has showered upon you.

Growing rich in the sight of God means to “let go” of the material things we simply do not need.

Whenever we decide to do a thorough cleaning of our homes, we are often surprised with what we have accumulated. In order to be free, we must periodically remove the clutter and chaos of our lives. If we are going to grow rich in the sight of God, we must acknowledge what is truly necessary and what is not and make the decision to “let go.”

If we realize that all our blessings are from God and that we have more than we need, the next step is obvious: We must share generously our blessings with others. It is often said that our true wealth is found not in what we keep but rather in what we give away. On that day God calls us to Himself we will be accountable to the extent that we have shared our blessings, resources and gifts with others, especially those in most need.

For further reflection upon what it means to grow rich in the sight of God, please try to find time to read the Holy Father’s recent encyclical, Caritas in Veritate (Charity in Truth). See the link on our Diocesan website. In this encyclical, Our Holy Father encourages us to remember that in the midst of the problems and difficulties we are facing in our nation and throughout our world, we have a solution. Basically, we must begin with love; a love that expresses itself in truth. We must assure that every person has dignity and is recognized and that we have an urgent duty to share the earth’s resources equitably and safeguard the environment for future generations. Our Holy Father notes the world’s current financial situation and states that “the current crisis obliges us to re-plan our journey, to set ourselves new rules and to discover new forms of commitment to build on positive experiences and to reject negative ones. The crisis thus becomes an opportunity for discernment, in which to shape a new vision for the future.” (21)

This edition of our Diocesan magazine highlights the 800^th anniversary of papal approval of the Rule of Saint Francis. What a perfect example of simplicity and humility; of how we grow rich in the sight of God. We may wish to read anew some of Saint Francis’ writings and study the important lessons he taught.

Certainly, we can meditate upon these words of Saint Francis of Assisi: “Where there is charity and wisdom, there is neither fear nor ignorance. Where there is patience and humility, there is neither anger nor vexation. Where there is poverty and joy, there is neither greed nor avarice. Where there is peace and meditation, there is neither anxiety nor doubt.”

Through the intercession of Saint Francis of Assisi, may we find ourselves living charity in truth so that we may grow rich in the sight of God.