What are you lacking, really?

During this time of year, we are inundated with advertisements trying to get us to spend our money with a particular company, or in a particular way. ‘Do you want to surprise your husband or wife, buy them this new car and they will love it.’ ‘Do you want your kids to love you- how about this new really expensive toy.’ Now, I really would not recommend purchasing something as large as a car without discussing it with your spouse for your own sake!

The secular world has no problem recommending that we go into huge debt to buy the things that we really do not need. There is a psychology behind advertising, and that is to try and convince you that you or someone you care about is lacking if they do not have a particular item. The true value in something is only as valuable as it is to the person who has it or the person who wants it. One of the most wanted gifts for many would be the newest and greatest gaming console, and it would be of great value here. However, I had a conversation with someone from a remote region of Africa one time and he asked me how often the power goes out here in the United States. I responded with very rarely, and he told me that in his village the power is shut off every night to save fuel and many times during the day if the power plant is running short. They also have very limited access to the Internet so a brand new fastest gaming console would be of very little value, nor would they even want it.

In the end, advertising relies on pride and envy. Pride in that I have to have the best thing to be seen as the best, and envy in that I need the things that others might have in order to keep up with others. We as Christians know that the things that we own can end up owning us. We are called to really desire one thing, and that is the kingdom of heaven. The things of the world can help us toward that, or they can hold us back from it. As we wrap up this season of Advent, we need to remind ourselves that while the material gifts are wonderful and exciting, one of the greatest gifts that we can give to others is our faith. This is something that will not break, it is something that can never be taken away from us, it is something that we will have forever. The gift of prayer and worship of God, is a gift that will strengthen those around us and can make them to be a better person in the world. Keep praying and, as we approach Christmas, keep in mind why and for who we celebrate this wonderful time.

God bless,
Fr. Ken