Abundance versus Apocalypse
While alive, Jesus taught an apocalyptic gospel – the world is soon changing, give away your possessions, and follow his example of living day-to-day, hand to mouth. Yet, some Christian churches now teach that abundance on a material level is available for the asking. The article of faith in these often evangelic models is to claim what is rightfully yours, your material inheritance from God. Role models for this in the Catholic pantheon are hard to find – most are already poor or give away any wealth they may have started with. How do the other Christians justify claiming material wealth, or, if not wealth, at least a comfortable lifestyle? Where is the teaching written? The Birds of the Fields metaphor is not about abundance, it’s about trust. The trust is not about receiving everything you want, it’s about receiving everything you need for the day. The words need (meaning basic necessities) and day (meaning today – no hoarding for tomorrow) are key to this parable.