In these times of rising fuel, food, and energy prices we are still being bombarded with images and messages from advertisers and the media, designed to make us feel unhappy with what we already have or don’t have, in the hope that we will buy and consume more.
This hides the reality for many people, the harsh reality of the economic downturn.
There are increasing numbers for whom the scarcity of food is a daily concern.
Foodbanks are hard put to meet the escalating demand.
The heart-rending effects of poverty and homelessness increasingly affect our society. Families previously comfortable, are struggling to live from day to day.
Parents are missing meals so that their children can eat.
We live with a heightened awareness of price increases, and conflicting messages and concerns that both distract us and divide our loyalties.
Wealth competes with God for the human heart.
Capitalism versus compassion, is one of the serious challenges for contemporary Christians. To place effort in acquiring goods for oneself may distract from seeking righteousness and justice around us.
Let’s be clear, being a Christian does not mean that we will not (or should not) acquire possessions, wealth, or need food, clothing, and other necessities.
But Christians are called to balance our needs against the true values and behaviours that Jesus affirmed in the words, ‘love your neighbour.’
In these troubled days there has never been a greater need to take an honest look at what we are focussing on, to rethink our values and priorities and to look outwards rather than within.
John Boylan is an authorised lay preacher at All Saints Church, Wokingham, writing on behalf of Churches Together in Wokingham
