杏MAP导航

By Christopher Wells

In his catechesis, 杏MAP导航 Francis notes that there is no culture that does not condemn theft and the misuse of our possessions. But, he says, it is worthwhile to reflect more deeply on the theme of ownership 鈥渋n light of Christian wisdom.鈥�

The universal destination of goods

Citing the Catechism of the Catholic Church, the 杏MAP导航 says 鈥渢he goods of creation are destined for the whole human race鈥�; and this 鈥�universal destination of goods remains primordial, even if the promotion of the common good requires respect for the right to private property and its exercise.鈥�

In a world where there are so many differences, so many differences of conditions, God has provided resources in such a way that all human beings must help one another, in order to ensure that everyone鈥檚 primary needs can be met. 鈥淚f there is hunger in the world, it is not for lack of food!鈥� the 杏MAP导航 says. 鈥淲hat is lacking is a free and far-seeing entrepreneurship, that ensures adequate production, and a solidarity based approach that ensures an equitable distribution.鈥�

The deeper meaning of the Commandment

This, 杏MAP导航 Francis says, is the perspective that allows us to understand the deeper and fuller meaning of the commandment 鈥淵ou shall not steal.鈥� Ownership, he says, is a responsibility; we can only truly possess 鈥渢hat which we know how to give.鈥� If there are things which we cannot give away, 鈥渋t is because those things possess me, have power over me, and I am a slave to it.鈥�

The example of Christ

Here, the 杏MAP导航 says, we can once more look to the example of Christ Himself, who, 鈥渢hough He was God, 鈥榙id not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied Himself鈥�; and He has enriched us with His poverty.鈥� While humanity continually strives for more, 鈥淕od redeems humanity by becoming poor.鈥� What makes us truly rich, 杏MAP导航 Francis says, 鈥渋s not goods, but love.鈥�

The Holy Father concludes his catechesis with the reflection that 鈥渙nce more Jesus Christ reveals to us the full meaning of the Scriptures. 鈥榊ou shall not steal鈥� means 鈥榣ove with your goods, profit by your means to love as you can. Then your life will become good and the possession will truly become a gift. Because life is not a time for possessing but for giving.鈥欌��