Kevin’s Korner… On Evangelism                         

At our recent Band of Brothers, Pastor Mark brought up the topic of the current financial crisis in the world in the light of St. Francis of Assissi.  We discussed how St. Francis returned from war a changed man and renounced his father’s lucrative business and he be came detached from material wealth.  By the way, there is a great movie called “Brother Sun, Sister Moon” depicting a part of his life. 

So in these tough economic times it is good to remember that material wealth is not what life is about.  Walter Johnston in his book “Mystical Theology—The Science of Love” reminds us in Luke 14:3 Jesus says “sell all you have and give to the poor and… come follow me…so therefore none of you can become my disciples if you do not give up all your possessions”.  In this journey, be it noted, one gives up the clinging, the craving, the attachment, the possessiveness-not the thing itself.

For all things that God made all good and beautiful and true.  That is why at the summit St. John of the Cross can cry out:  “Now that I least desire them, I have them all without desire.”  That is why St. Francis could glory in the nakedness of spirit.  As we give up clinging to the material, we give up anxiety.  Jesus says “Don’t be anxious” for anxiety is a subtle form of attachment.  We cling to our anxieties for security.  We cling to our anxieties so as not to fall into the void.  But the Gospel tells us to let go of anxieties—when we fall into the void we become liberated.

So let’s fight the good fight and do our best and keep enjoying this wonderful life we live as Christians despite the global economic problems and our own financial difficulties.  Keep your courage and love flowing through the power of the Holy Spirit! 

Peace,Kevin Hessee