In the first two chapters we reflected on the false values which Mammon offers us and hopefully, with the examples given to us by Christ, we can grow to replace them.
The third chapter examines an underlying attitude towards money that is encouraged by Mammon. The scarcity of a resource, in this case money, compels us to hold tightly to what we have. What we have we hold - what we hold we control. Jesus challenges us to replace this lie with the truth of God - which is about extravagance and abundance!
The Archbishop uses the example of Mary washing Christ's feet with the expensive Nard. (Worth £25,000 in today's money). many in the Book Group initially shared the response of Judas - how could something of such value be used to wash feet, when it could have been used to feed the poor and hungry? Judas was vocalising the inner thoughts of many.
We are reminded that this was an act of love, worship and devotion to Christ.
'You will always have the poor among you, but you will not always have me' (John 12:8)
Jesus shows us that the action of Mary is in accord with what will soon happen on the cross and beyond, something that will have cosmic significance. Such an act of worship puts God at the centre and in its effect obliterates the deceptions of Mammon.
Judas sees in material terms, cash values, scarcity and fear. Mary represents the economy of God, of 'manna', generosity and abundance. In the world that God has created there is enough to go around.
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