To the surprise of the people who were awaiting the Messiah, God chose to send His Son into a situation that did not even have the basic necessities. But we are living in a modern world, that has multiplied the needs of the human being and make life miserable. That is why Paul is reminding us of the impermanence of worldly things that do not make us spiritually rich: “What did we bring into the world? Nothing! What can we take out of the world? Nothing!” (1 Tim 6:7). The gospel he advocated expects us to be satisfied with the necessary things, that should make us feel safe and contented: “So then, if we have food and clothes, that should be enough for us” (1 Tim 6:8). Leading a life of simplicity and contentment is the real challenge that is kept before us as Christians, for we too are tempted to own and possess unnecessary worldly goods.

Abba, thank You for setting the example of Your Son’s life on earth, to be the model of contentment. Let Your Spirit enable us to be grateful to You for providing us with the necessities, in Jesus’ Most Wonderful Name, Amen.