This page contains a Flash digital edition of a book.
ise of more than enough if only we would trust and share rather than allow ourselves to be gripped by fear and anxiety. His teaching on giving without expecting a return is a thor- oughgoing critique of the patronage ethic of reciprocity that governed all interpersonal relationships in antiquity.


In Greco-Roman society, a handful of elites controlled all the resources, with others depending on them for financial assistance. But in giving to others out of their largesse, these elites kept the general public beholden by fostering in them a sense of obligation, indebtedness, gratitude and loyalty that undermined commu- nal solidarity, equality and freedom. Income and wealth inequality in the U.S. has reached the highest level since 1929. But the more profound issue raised by this imbalance con- cerns the impact of the economic system on our dignity, freedom and cooperation with one another. First of all, the market system compromises human dignity by defining the pur- pose and value of life in terms of a person’s participation in the economy as a producer of value and consumer of goods.


This is how Charles E. Lindblom,


author of The Market System (Yale University Press, 2002), summarizes how the market system constrains our freedom: The market system is a society-wide coordination of human activities, not by central command but by mutual interactions in the form of transactions. Like the state, the market system is a method of controlling and coordinating people’s behavior. That market participants see themselves as making free and voluntary choices does not deny that they are controlled by purchases and sales.


Lastly, and perhaps most impor-


tantly, the market system undermines community and cooperation because


728 Klumac Road | Salisbury, NC 28144 | trinityoaks.net August 2011 33


it’s driven by ambition and com- petition. What is most precious or sacred in the market system of valu- ation is the individual. Yet the extent to which an individual is valued depends on his or her performance according to the rules of this zero- sum game.


All of us have to live within this system and participate in it daily, but we don’t have to be defined by it. The point is not that the market system is inherently sinful or immoral, but rather that economic systems per se don’t care about people. And yet we unconsciously internalize the values of a system that dictates our desires and puts us into competition with one another to fulfill them.


In word and deed, Jesus bears witness to an alternative reality of God’s care for creation that is meant to inspire his followers to care for one another. He teaches and models


‘Simple enough’ blog For a humorous yet practical look at issues of stewardship, money and justice, check out Bob Sitze’s “Simple enough” blog at www.thelutheran.org/blog/simpleenough.


a way of life that is grounded on trust in God’s grace and generosity for the sake of the common good. Our task as the people of God in Christ is to critically reflect together on how we have internalized the values and practices of the market system, how it shapes our desires and dreams. Mostly we have been con- ditioned to want what others have. Jesus’ proclamation and enactment of the kingdom challenges us to align our lives with God’s purposes for creation.


As we hear and inwardly digest


God’s word in our life together, let us discern habits of living, giving and sharing that demonstrate this divine generosity toward all without strings attached. For this is how God changes the world. M


Beauty. Friends. Happiness. Security. All right here in your new backyard.


It’s just amazing how many wonderful things can come your way when you make the move to Trinity Oaks. Like a spacious, maintenance-free cottage in a neighborhood so naturally beautiful, you hate


to leave it. And then there’s all of the new friendships you’ll make. Not to mention the delicious meals, state of the art fitness center, and indoor pool. And, most importantly, peace of mind. Join us for a visit and lunch soon. To learn more, call (704) 633-1002 or (800) 610-0783.


Page 1  |  Page 2  |  Page 3  |  Page 4  |  Page 5  |  Page 6  |  Page 7  |  Page 8  |  Page 9  |  Page 10  |  Page 11  |  Page 12  |  Page 13  |  Page 14  |  Page 15  |  Page 16  |  Page 17  |  Page 18  |  Page 19  |  Page 20  |  Page 21  |  Page 22  |  Page 23  |  Page 24  |  Page 25  |  Page 26  |  Page 27  |  Page 28  |  Page 29  |  Page 30  |  Page 31  |  Page 32  |  Page 33  |  Page 34  |  Page 35  |  Page 36  |  Page 37  |  Page 38  |  Page 39  |  Page 40  |  Page 41  |  Page 42  |  Page 43  |  Page 44  |  Page 45  |  Page 46  |  Page 47  |  Page 48  |  Page 49  |  Page 50  |  Page 51  |  Page 52