August 16. Materialism. One of the group raised the topic of materialism and even vanity. “I was thinking of the Scripture story of the rich young man who was asked to sell all his possessions and follow Jesus,” Joann said. “We always hear this story and think of a young man but would it not apply equally to a woman?  Are women more materialistic, more vain, more interested in clothes and nice things than men, or are their desires just different?  I think that this challenge that Jesus issues is probably one of the most difficult ones to respond to. Quite honestly I think most people I know , including me, would “go away sorrowful” whether they are rich or poor if asked to give up everything.” 

If you would be perfect go, sell what you possess and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow me.  The young man heard this and went away sorrowful. Matt 19: 20-22.   

Pope Francis:  Bartholomew has drawn attention to the ethical and spiritual roots of environmental problems which require that we look for solutions not only in technology but in a change of humanity.  He asks us to replace consumption with sacrifice, greed with generosity, wastefulness with a spirit of sharing and learning to give and not simply to give up.  LS9 “‘I would like to see a church that is poor and is for the poor.’