Is money the root of all evil?

In this Sunday gospel, Jesus says, “No servant can serve two masters — ‘God and mammon’ that is, wealth as an evil influence.” (Lk 16,13).

- FR. BEL SAN LUIS, SVD

It is because in practical life, money is important. A witty guy once said: “People say, ‘Money is the root of all evils,’ but they can plant it in my garden anytime.”

We need money to live, to support our families, and to sustain our churches and mission apostolates. Also, money can be used to put up companies that will provide employments. Hence, money is not basically bad.

However, with money you can do a lot of evil. For instance, corrupt politicians and government officials who amass millions and billions as presently happening, bribing people, hiring goons to harass people, influencing judges’ decisions for money, and so on.

The danger of being rich — and this is what Christ warns against — is the attachment to wealth and the selfish spirit that go with it.

***