“Avarice is a principle not only detestable in its nature, but prejudicial to the possessor of it; inasmuch as it alienates the mind from God, frequently leads to dishonesty among men, and what is worse, is a disorder hardly ever cured! Other passions have their holidays, but avarice never suffers its votaries to rest.”
Charles Buck (1771-1815) English Clergyman in Day’s Collacon compiled and arranged by Edward Parsons Day (New York: IPPO, 1884) 56.
As we prepare for the arrival of Jesus this Advent, let’s confess our sins to God, especially avarice: the insatiable desire for more money and possessions. Avarice is a fruit of our flesh, and generosity is the fruit of the Spirit (cf. Galatians 5:16-25). God is the only one that can cure this disorder. Besides, what we all need more of is not money and possessions but more of God.