From how John the Baptist lived, can we assume it is easier to be spiritual when poor? He came preaching in the desert of Judea, "Repent for the kingdom of heaven is near." This marked him as the one prophesied by Isaiah, a voice calling in the desert, "Prepare the way for the Lord, make straight paths for him." (Isaiah 40:3)

John dressed in camel hair, with a leather belt, and ate a diet of locusts and wild honey. His focus was on his message to the people; he cared nothing for a soft life for himself. Of course, people were curious and came from Jerusalem and all Judea to hear him. Many confessed their sins and were baptized.

We need to be doing the things God has long before planned for us to do, and for that matter, John's message is one we may also proclaim and obey; to prepare a way for the Lord in our own lives.

I wonder if John was so strong spiritually because he had withdrawn from the world's pleasures and personal requirements, and learned to be content with the very basics in clothing and food? At least, I found when I gave up a regular income, and practiced being content with what was given me, so I could be a caregiver for my parents, I had more time for and interest in spiritual things. I prayed more. Now when I'm more involved with the world again, that depth of spiritual communion with the Lord seems to slip away.

It seems fair to ask; is it easier to be spiritual when poor?

Obviously, when we are really focused on knowing and doing God's will, the "things" of this world, such as acceptable fashions, and current food fads and customs all mean very little.

I confess, I'm feeling torn these days. I miss the hours I spent in devotions and sorting out my thoughts and plans in His presence. I realize now that I was far more spiritual those days. On the other hand, I do enjoy the interaction with people and the busyness with details in my work. It's exciting to be making progress towards those long-held goals. But I'm beginning to wonder if one has to choose one or the other. Is it impossible to have both?

Surely, I'm not the only one who would like to be both spiritually mature and rightly focused - yet have some weath to share at the same time. Weighing these options honestly I have to admit it may be easier to be spiritual when poor, but if I work at it, especially after a time to gain some maaturity, and with God's help, I can be entrusted with more to give and share.