A rich man who showed off to others as a spiritual person. He built a shrine for a holy man, where all people of all religions used to visit. His house had a special guest house for visiting religious dignitaries. He owned horses, cattle herd, sheep, and dogs. During winter, he used to provide woolen sweaters for horses and clothes with sacks of other animals. However, there were many workers to upkeep the animals, fields, gardens, and huge housing complexes. Many of them lived in poverty. These workers could not even afford to send children to school. In winter, his workers would shiver in the cold, but he would not bother. Animals’ welfare preceded human welfare in his worldview.
Love humans: Apostle John states: “If anyone says, “I love God,” and hates his brother, he is a liar; for he who does not love his brother whom he has seen cannot love God whom he has not seen.” (I John 4:20) It is sad to see people treated worse than animals. Job raises a great question: “Did not he who made me in the womb make him?” (Job 31:15) God creates all human beings even today. The first couple Adam and Eve were created in the image of God. All human beings are his descendants.
Spiritual disease: Lack of concern is a spiritual disease and sin. One of the reasons for the judgement on Sodom and Gomorrah was lack of concern. (Ezekiel 16:49) Isaiah condemns: “Behold, in the day of your fast you seek your own pleasure, and oppress all your workers.” (Isaiah 58:3)
Listen: People of God should develop the habit of listening to the outcry of hapless victims. Sadly, many wealthy people do not hear the cry of the poor but could hear the distress of animals. “Whoever closes his ear to the cry of the poor will himself call out and not be answered.” (Proverbs 21:13)
Satisfy afflicted: Isaiah declares that true spirituality including fasting is to feed the hungry and satisfy the afflicted. (Isaiah 58: 10)
Am I concerned about others and helping others?