~Joel’s Blog
Green With…
In our first installment on the subject, we observed that envy is really about hate. Given that our culture frowns on “hate” (bullying, hate-crimes, prejudice, etc.) isn’t is strange how much envy is embraced?
What’s that? We embrace the green monster? Sure. If you have any doubts, just think “Occupy” and “1%.” Still unconvinced? Consider what the underlying attraction of some reality TV shows is. Or popular films. Then there’s top-selling music…OK, maybe music that isn’t chart-topping, too. How about nearly every commercial that’s ever been created? While adults might argue over how common envy is in the culture of youth, some very fine minds have commented on its role in all of culture. Observe these fine quotes:
Envy is the art of counting the other fellow’s blessings instead of your own.
Harold CoffinProbably the greatest harm done by vast wealth is the harm that we of moderate means do ourselves when we let the vices of envy and hatred enter deep into our own natures.
Theodore RooseveltSocialism is a philosophy of failure, the creed of ignorance, and the gospel of envy, its inherent virtue is the equal sharing of misery.
Winston Churchill
Envy Is As E
nvy Does?
So, the culture we live in actively despises “hate” but actively engages in “envy.” Does this duality impact the life of faith, and ooze into the life of the church?
Sure. Unless you think that people of faith don’t suffer from the power of this sin. Or that our secular culture finds no harmonic
resonance within the sacred church. It seems that if this monster roams too freely where adults move, it is certainly poses a risk to kids, too. More so when the monster is met with an unthinking embrace.
Engage here. What does envy look like in your life? Who does it impact the most in your world? Who else should consider these questions? Send them this way, please.