Follow us online for news, events, prayer and spiritual resources, plus much more:
In this week’s gospel, Judas hands Jesus over to the chief priests in exchange for 30 pieces of silver - the ultimate betrayal of a man, who lived to serve, heal and reveal the love of God to us all.
Judas’ ultimate regret of his decision makes me reflect on the question: What is true wealth?
Last week, a group of us journeyed deep into the heart of Appalachia to live with an intentional community devoted to service, prayer, simplicity and community. We spent long days learning how to use power tools and working on home improvements for those in need. We planted onions, harvested fresh kale, dug, pitchforked, composted, raked and probably did every other farm chore you can think of. We conserved water by taking bucket showers and using sawdust toilets. We cooked, cleaned and washed dishes by hand. We used a wood-burning stove to keep warm at night. We put away our cell phones for the whole week and didn’t have access to a tv or any electronic entertainment.
Yet with all those sacrifices - in our reflection time at the end of each day, we marveled together at the absolute richness of the experience of life on Bethlehem Farm.
From dawn to dusk, we were surrounded by gorgeous views of the mountains. We gathered together to enjoy organic, locally grown, delicious meals every morning, noon and night. We learned new things about sustainability, Catholic social teaching, local artists and justice issues faced by the Appalachian people. Without phones, we made time to be fully present and engaged in meaningful conversations with one another throughout our days. Without technology, we entertained each other with home-made music, karaoke singalongs, stories, game nights, dance parties and creativity. We got plenty of fresh air and exercise. We shared beautiful times of prayer and reflection. We forged genuine relationships with one another, the caretakers at the farm and community members, who we served.
So, what is true wealth?
I think Jesus said it best in John 10:10 “I came that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.” Personally, I most tangibly experience the abundant wealth and fullness of life when I am able to live in harmony with God, nature, family and community, while being of service to others in meaningful ways like we did last week at Bethlehem Farm.
I pray that we are all blessed to find that same kind of authentic spiritual wealth in our daily lives now that we're back home.
Have a question about a program or event going on in Campus Ministry? Got an idea for something you'd like to see happen? EMAIL US at ministry@sau.edu.
