A Priest in the Catholic Diocese of Gboko of Benue State, Rev Fr Elijah Abunde has admonished christians against the dangers of material wealth instead of Godly possessions.
Fr Abunde while delivering Sunday sermon at St William’s Cathedral in Lafia, Nasarawa State cited the parable of the rich fool in Luke 12:13-21, said material possessions do not guarantee security or salvation.
“Vanity of vanities; all is vanity. Whether you possess wealth or not, it is vanity. What gives meaning to life is the gifts of God. To have hope in God gives meaning to life.”
He noted that some wealthy individuals neglect their loved ones and those who helped them achieve success.
“The rich fool neglected everybody, including his wife and family, when he possessed wealth. There are people who neglect people even under their care. They do not appreciate people who helped them in their journey of success,” he said.
The Priest stressed the importance of using one’s wealth to benefit others.
“We should use our riches to better the lives of others. There is no harm in making wealth, but the harm comes when you become rich and neglect God and people around you,” he cautioned.
Fr Abunde encouraged the congregation to prioritise their relationship with God and store up treasures in heaven.
“Begin to prepare for your death, unlike the rich fool who never knew that God will demand for his soul the next day,” he advised.
Fr Abunde urged the faithful to remain humble and grateful, even in success adding that, “We are to continue to struggle in life, but when we become successful, we should not forget God and the people who are around us.”
