became poor although he was rich, so that by his poverty you might become rich

2 CORINTHIANS 8:1-9

Jesus Christ . . . became poor although he was rich, so that by his poverty you might become rich. (2 Corinthians 8:9)

In 2010, an Austrian millionaire announced that he was selling all of his properties and businesses. At age forty-seven, he had become convinced that he needed to stop what he was doing and begin living in a different way. So he set up an organization to help people in developing countries. Then he transferred the bulk of his money to that organization. A rich man, he made himself poor in order to enrich the lives of the needy.

That’s a good way to understand today’s first reading. Paul tells us that Jesus emptied himself for us so that we could be filled with his spiritual riches.

Imagine: Jesus was seated with the Father and the Holy Spirit in heaven. He felt no need or shortage at all, only perfect love, majesty, and holiness. At his word, glorious things came to be. He was surrounded by angels who worshipped him day and night. It’s hard to imagine any greater richness!

And yet as rich as he was, Jesus gave it all up when he became a man. He was born in a stable to a poor carpenter and his wife. He spent his childhood in simplicity, learning his father’s trade. Then he left home and began traveling the countryside preaching the gospel and healing those who were broken and sick. He spent sleepless nights in prayer and endless days in ministry. In the end, he died a shameful death, abandoned even by his followers.

Why did Jesus go through all of that? Simply to make you rich. He set aside his glory so that he could give you unlimited forgiveness, access to heaven, and the ability to know God personally. Now, because of the riches of his grace, you can walk with him and love other people as fully as he did.

Why live like a pauper when Jesus has made you wealthy? Don’t be afraid to ask him for more—more mercy, more forgiveness, more wisdom, more joy. Jesus doesn’t want to see you living as if you’re bankrupt. Because you’re not. He gave up everything—for you!

“Jesus, thank you for your immense generosity. Help me accept all the riches you have offered me.”

Psalm 146:2, 5-9
Matthew 5:43-48