Unrighteous mammon

I'm currently reading The Challenge of the Disciplined Life by Richard J. Foster and I've been working through some tough issues on money (or unrighteous mammon). Foster believes that this term is specifically used by Jesus to illustrate to us that money is not a neutral element in this world or even just a "vague or impersonal power. No, according to Jesus and all the writers of the New Testament, behind money are very real spiritual forces that energize it and give it a life of its own. Hence, money is an active agent: it is a law unto itself; and it is capable of inspiring devotion."

Money, therefore, needs to be seen for what it is in the context of its spiritual reality. Foster goes on to say that, "It is one of the principalities and powers that must be conquered and redeemed through the blood of Jesus Christ before it can be usable for the greater good of the kingdom of God." He finishes this thought by summing up that, "until we have faced and conquered the hellish character of money are we candidates for receiving and using its beneficial side." (This really caught my attention. There is the theme that keeps popping in some of the books I've read lately. That being, that people are not the only things that are able to be redeemed in God's creation. What does this mean?)

There is however a lighter side to money. Foster claims that if money can be used within the confines of a properly disciplined spiritual life it can bring blessing to all of humanity and glory to God.

Foster gives some great examples in the book of how this can be exemplified. It is clear to me that very few people who call themselves Christians practice a properly disciplined life when it comes to money (and other things), myself included. A disciplined life will be "the" great challenge for those in the Church now and in the coming generations.

Let me leave you with a few more reflections on "unrighteous mammon" by Foster.

"Money-unrighteous mammon-is poison, and like poison, it is a blessing only when it is used properly and with great care." (To me this is somehow reminiscent of Mark 16:18, a verse whose context made no sense to me until now, obviously not to be limited to money).

"...The Bible emphasizes both a dark and a light side with regard to money. The gulf between the two can seem very large indeed, but we have worked to bridge the gap.
Now come with me to the manger in Bethlehem. Notice the worshipers-humble shepherds and regal magi. Here we see poverty and wealth both brought to the manger. The kingly gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh are given freely in the service of the messianic King. Shepherds who have been closed out of life's money channels give their presence and their worship. Both are called, the poorest of the poor and the richest of the rich. Both come, both kneel, both give Christmas worship."

And finally perhaps the most important reflection in this book with regards to money...

"In the world money means access to the corridors of power...In the fellowship of the Church money should mean nothing." (Can we afford to judge others based on how much money they have or don't have? See James 2:1)