Eighteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time

“Take care to guard against all greed, for though one may be rich, one’s life does not consist of possessions.”

I have a vivid recollection of what moved me to realize my calling to dedicate myself to God’s service as a religious sister some 41 years ago. It relates well to the readings this Sunday. The readings remind me of the essential things that may seem insignificant in our eyes but could be our lifeline to gaining our place in the heart of God.

The first reading reorients our vision from things of the world to things of God. Qoheleth said, “All things are vanity.” The second reading reminds us of our purpose in being born on this Earth. We are destined to return to God and anticipate God’s appearance in all God’s glory. We are taught not to fall into vainglory, greediness, impurity, immorality, evil desire, and idolatry. When I left my family and future career, I held on to Jesus’ words, “Seek first the Kingdom of God and God’s righteousness, and everything will be given unto you.” I felt that all the material concerns I had at that time were removed, and I stayed focused on where God was leading me as a young professional.

The gospel reading today is another piece of good news. What does greed do for us? When we are greedy, we prioritize personal gain over relationships, ethics, and even our well-being. Greediness can produce strained relationships, stress, and loneliness. One becomes dishonest. On a larger scale, unchecked greed can lead to economic crises, environmental destruction, and social inequality, which is happening now around us. As followers of Jesus, we are called and challenged to live simple lifestyles. Be contented with what is enough and think of others. I would further say that when we all learn to live out our path of ethical and moral becoming, then there will be enough for everyone.

As I close this reflection, I remember words Steve Jobs, the founder of Apple, is said to have shared in his last days: “I realize that all my recognition and wealth are meaningless in the face of imminent death.” Our true inner happiness does not come from the material things of this world. “Whether you’re flying first class or economy class, if the plane crashes, you crash with it.”

May these words inspire us to “guard against all greed, as our life does not consist of possessions.” May we learn to give, out of our poverty and, above all, to give out of our riches.