Father Jim’s presentation draws on the imagery of the Australian countryside to illustrate the spiritual message in Jeremiah’s prophecy and Jesus’ teachings. He compares trees planted by water, which remain nourished even in drought, to those who put their trust in God, while those who rely solely on themselves are like dry shrubs struggling to survive.
He then connects this message to Jesus’ radical teachings in the Gospel, where blessings are given to the poor and hungry, while warnings are issued to the rich and well-fed. Unlike the more familiar 'poor in spirit' phrasing, Jesus explicitly addresses material poverty and hunger, challenging worldly values that equate wealth and security with success.
Father Jim highlights how wealth can lead to self-reliance, making people less dependent on God and less connected to others. He notes that true blessing comes from living in reliance on God, rather than insulating oneself from need. He warns that the desire for more—whether financial security or material comfort—can quietly draw people away from a deeper trust in God.
He concludes by emphasizing the importance of voluntary sacrifices, such as fasting during Lent, to cultivate empathy for those in need and to foster spiritual dependence on God. Ultimately, Jesus’ message is not that wealth itself is evil, but that reliance on wealth over God is spiritually risky. The call is to remain open-hearted, recognizing God’s special care for the poor and needy.
Journal and reflect on these questions
What does it mean for you to 'trust in God' rather than relying solely on yourself? How can you deepen that trust in your daily life?
Jesus teaches that the poor and hungry are blessed. How does this challenge the way you view wealth, success, and security?
Can you think of times when comfort or financial security has made you less dependent on God? How might you cultivate a spirit of reliance on God even in times of stability?
What practical steps can you take to stand in solidarity with those who are materially poor and hungry? How might this change your perspective on generosity?
Father Jim suggests that voluntary fasting or sacrifice can help us become more aware of our dependence on God. What is one thing you could fast from this Lent to grow spiritually?
How do you see the contrast between the values of the world and the values of God’s kingdom in your own life? Where do you feel called to shift your priorities?
Reflecting on Jesus’ call to be “poor in spirit,” how can you cultivate humility and a greater awareness of your need for God?
Discuss
Song - Nothing Else
Final Prayer
Loving and merciful God, You are our true provider and our deepest treasure. Teach us to trust in You alone, not in wealth, status, or earthly comforts, but in Your unfailing love and grace. Open our hearts to the needs of the poor, the hungry, and the forgotten, that we may live with generosity and humility, always relying on You. Help us to seek Your kingdom first, to walk in faith even when the path is uncertain, and to find our joy not in possessions but in Your presence. May we always remember that true blessing is found in dependence on You, and may our lives reflect the values of Your kingdom. Amen.
