The Pope Reflection

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To Lay Down Everything You've Built

Dear Gravity

This month Pope Leo invites us to pray for the proper use of wealth; that not succumbing to the temptation of selfishness, it may always be put at the service of the common good and solidarity of those who have less.

The Gospel teaches us that the accumulation of money is not an end in itself but that prosperity is only one of many important values in life. That means that we have to sift through our priorities to discover the true value of wealth, as a means to fulfil God’s purposes in the world.

In the light of Jesus’ teaching, his followers chose to distribute their wealth amongst those who needed it the most. As you listen to these words from the Acts of the Apostles, notice how they are bound together by their faith in the risen Jesus, and their simple gesture of laying excess wealth reverently at the feet of the apostles.

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Now the whole group of those who believed were of one heart and soul, and no one claimed private ownership of any possessions, but everything they owned was held in common. With great power the apostles gave their testimony to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and great grace was upon them all. There was not a needy person among them, for as many as owned lands or houses sold them and brought the proceeds of what was sold. They laid it at the apostles’ feet, and it was distributed to each as any had need.

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Kairos

Recognising the true value of wealth means realising that everything is a gift from God and allowing ourselves to be moved by God so that we can use that gift for God’s purposes in the world. So, begin this time of reflection by giving thanks to God for everything you possess, and relishing the difference it makes to your life.

Now take a moment to ponder the purpose for which God has given you those possessions. Whether you are spending too much, keep finding yourself short, or are just getting it about right, allow yourself to be moved by God. Can you notice the purpose for which God has given you all those good things?

Wealth can close our hearts tight shut, or open them up in generosity. Take a moment to notice the condition of your own heart: whether you are cling to money, or able to hold on to it lightly, so that you are readily disposed to use it in the way that God wants.

Allow yourself to be moved by the plight of people who have much less than you do or just the healthy desire to lead a simpler life and consider how you can spend money with more awareness, share it with more generosity, and appreciate more deeply what you already possess.

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Coming into the presence of Jesus, ask him to show you what is most valuable to him in your life at the moment: the people, the places, the occupations, and compare this kind of value to the value of your material wealth. Speak to Jesus about where you are placing your priorities at the moment, and listen to what he has to say in response.

Perhaps you can imagine someone in great need, and bring them before Jesus, asking him to care for them in the way that he has cared for you. Ask Jesus for whatever it is you need to put your gifts, talents and material possessions at the service of the least and commit yourself to taking one small action today.

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We end this meditation with the Pope’s offering prayer, which you are invited to make your own:

Good Father, I know you are with me. Here I am on this new day. Place my heart once more next to the Heart of your Son Jesus, who is giving himself for me and who comes to me in the Eucharist. May your Holy Spirit make me his friend and apostle, available for his mission of compassion. I place in your hands my joys and hopes, my works and sufferings, everything that I am and have, in communion with my brothers and sisters of this Worldwide Prayer Network. With Mary, I offer you my day for the mission of the Church and for the prayer intentions of the Pope and my Bishop for this month. Amen.