Prosperity

"Cast your bread upon the waters, for after many days you will find it again"

Ecclesiastes 11:1 (NIV)

Last Sunday was inspirational; I attended several, very different church services in south and north London . The first I will cover in this Posting and the other two, in my next which will be sent on Sunday, as I am on a residential academic programme in the West Midlands, for most of next week. I began in my "Mecca" – Brixton by revisiting one of the largest, black mega churches in England . From time to time, particularly when I need to get back in touch with my feelings and physically express myself in Church, I visit this one. All the nuances of black worship are present; the dynamic interplay of movement with rhythm and style, music and song that echo down the years to my early church years, the familiar and participatory "call and response" and most importantly, sound extemporary preaching with a strong scriptural content interwoven with the experiences of daily life. The church’s appeal is illustrated by its anthem, placed high above the altar for all to see. It is a church "Where Everyone is Somebody" or "Wheh ebery wan is smody". Yes, the experience is a home coming.

Earlier in the week, I had watched a television programme on the "health and prosperity" doctrine - "Bling Bling Christianity" and the phenomenal influence of secular hip hop culture in the U.S. It highlighted the adoption of this very successful genre and its integration into church life, through the adaptation of Christian lyrics. There were graphic portrayals of the associated affluent lifestyles (attained only by a few rappers) being accessed by prominent ministers of religion, but minus the drugs and violence. The symbols of success; visualised by the conspicuous display of expensive jewellery, premium motor vehicles, designer clothing and luxurious properties were now the indicators of a God blessed ministry. So it was with much interest that I listened keenly to the Bishop’s exposition on the parable of the talents in Matthew 25:14-29. His introduction focussed on two types of Christians; those who were so spiritual that they had "no earthly use" and the brightest people who became stupid on being "saved". He apologised to those of European descent who were present as he wanted to emphasise the importance of black people celebrating the success of other black people and not the reverse. The parable was used to illustrate the importance of black achievement, by indicating God’s desire for our prosperity. "If God blesses you, show it off" he said as we should not be afraid of prospering or of celebrating the prosperity of others. He balanced his proclamation with the importance of having a sensible attitude to wealth and by recalling two specific scriptural examples were wealth was an issue. Firstly of how Zacchaeus, the tax collector made a decision to compensate those he had cheated (Luke 19; 1-9) and the rich ruler, who despite wanting to "inherit eternal life" was unable to give all he had to the poor and to follow Jesus (Luke 18:18-29).

Incidentally, there is an alternative reading of the parable of the talents that highlights the exploitative capitalism inherent in the text and the victimisation of the whistle-blower. Here the aristocrat is placed within the rural economy and culture of his time and the parable is seen as "a form of social analysis". Consequently, he is portrayed as oppressive to the peasantry and one who expects his trusted slaves to continue his harsh practices to increase his own wealth. This type of historical and critical interpretation exposes the revolutionary messages within the parables of Jesus. They contribute to his image as a liberator and highlight the reasons for his murder by the political and religious elites, who feared being overthrown by the people, radicalised by his message.

Several years ago, I was fortunate to attend a black church service that met regularly in the Hyatt Hotel, in West Hollywood, Los Angeles. I have never in my life worshipped within such an affluent and well dressed congregation. It was a revelation! When one of the ministers, commented on how God had given him a Rolls Royce motor car, I remember thinking, that whilst God may have given him the money, it was his choice, to buy a luxury vehicle with it. In reflecting on the Bishop’s sermon, I can appreciate the need to encourage the church, to move beyond "the crumbs that fall from the master’s table syndrome". God is more than able to supply our daily needs. However I would like to feel that regardless of how we acquire our spiritual and material wealth, that it is never through the exploitation of others, the degradation of ourselves or the suppression of integrity and justice. History is full of examples of the "Christian Church" acting "unholy" and with violence and vengeance in its oppression of those it considers "different" and outside the love of God.

"Then the King will say to those on his right, 'Come, you who are blessed by my [God]; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world. For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me’. "Then the righteous will answer him, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?' "The King will reply, 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers [and sisters] of mine, you did for me". - Matthew 25:34-40 (NIV)

May the Holy Spirit of God supply your every need (spiritual, physical and emotional) in abundance.

Be blessed.

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