In God We Trust
by Mark Noonan on October 7th, 2008 at 03:32am
On Monday Pope Benedict XVI briefly remarked on the financial crisis during the opening of the first General Congregation of the Twelfth Ordinary General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops. In the aftermath of the “fall of the great banks,” he reminded synod attendees that money is of “secondary importance” to the Word of God, which he called the “foundation of all reality.”
The Pope referenced Christ’s words at the close of the Sermon on the Mount in which he speaks of building one’s house’s foundation upon sand or upon rock.
“Those who build on sand do so only on visible and tangible things: on success, career and money,” the Pope explained.
“These seem to true reality, but one day they will pass away”, he continued.
“We see this now with the fall of the great banks. Money disappears, it becomes nothing. And thus all these things which seem to be real and upon which we can rely, are in fact of secondary importance.
“All human things, all things we can invent and create are finite. So too all human religious experiences are finite. They show only one aspect of reality, because our limited being understands only some parts, some elements.
“Only God is infinite and through him, his Word too is universal and knows no end,” Pope Benedict remarked.
“Only the Word of God is the foundation of all reality, stable like heaven. Therefore we must change our concept of reality. A realist is one who recognizes that the Word of God - this reality that appears so weak - is in fact the foundation of everything.”
Our liberal and leftwing friends are all about money - who has it, how much they have, what they do with it, how much should be taxed, how it will resolve all problems if only leftists are allowed to control it. But money is nothing - nothing of any importance. My house was worth $400,000, now its worth about $225,000 - back when it was worth 400k, if I hadn’t shown proper love, respect and devotion to my wife that day, what does it matter that my house is worth 400k? If today I show my wife the proper love, respect and devotion, of what consequence is it that the house is worth 225k? Its all a lot of rot and nonsense - a paper chase in the worst sense of the word, and we’ve allowed ourselves to be caught up in it as if it mattered.
Yesterday afternoon, I did a Rosary - for those unfamiliar, this is a prayer Catholics frequently do (but don’t do nearly enough). Its a great devotional prayer and something is strongly pulling me towards doing it each day, starting yesterday, for nine days. Various mysteries are contemplated when doing the Rosary - for yesterday, it was what are called the “Joyful Mysteries”; the Annunciation (when Mary was told she would bear Jesus), Visitation (Mary visits Elizabeth), Nativity (birth of Jesus), Presentation (Jesus consecrated at the Temple) and Finding Jesus in the Temple. In contemplating these things, we look for the spiritual fruits of Humility, Love of Neighbor, Poverty, Obedience and Joy in Finding Jesus. If one is humble, loves his neighbor, renounces the tyranny of material things, obeys the laws human and divine and worships God, what then does it matter if a person is rich or poor? We really need to get things back into the proper perspective - to understand the relative value of things in relation to humanity.
In God We Trust - in great wisdom we have placed that phrase on our currency, because we understood, once upon a time, that while money can be useful, one shouldn’t put any faith in it. Its here today and gone tomorrow - and if you win a million dollars next week and die the week after, what did the money matter? If you pile up billions, what will it advantage you upon your death? You’ll get a fancy casket, I guess. Other than that, I can’t think of anything - and for the corpse the type of casket doesn’t seem to be a matter for concern. It is time we take the one thing our money has of great value - In God We Trust - and start to re-apply it to our lives. In God We Trust - not political parties, not politicians, not business, not the media…heck, in the end, we are not even to place our trust in our rabbis, priests and pastors. In God We Trust. Our leftwing friends, especially, should take that to heart - I’ve seen “Obama Youth”, blue shirted fanatics and people fainting dead away at the mere sight of Barack Obama. He’s just a man - if you place your trust in him, you will be disappointed. He’s human - he’ll make mistakes, and all the more of them the more people ascribe to him a super-human ability to solve problems and make things all better.
I will write of politics; argue of politics; I will vote in November - I will try talk everyone I know into casting a McCain/Palin vote…but if McCain/Palin wins it won’t make life perfect, nor will an Obama/Biden win make it all miserable (though it would spread a great deal of misery). Battle! Strive! Love! Endure! - but In God We Trust; remember that.
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October 7th, 2008 at 7:41 am
So now that President Bush got his bill passed $700 billion of taxpayers’ dollars, you tell us that money is nothing of any importance. Yeah, right. We’re not buying it.
October 7th, 2008 at 8:08 am
what a small mind that shows…
really, i mean, whats more valuable..life…liberty and happiness…or money….give up your kids? for a few bucks? naaa…
but would you give up your money for your kids?
you do it every day….
so in effect..you already walk the walk…you just dont know why…
October 7th, 2008 at 8:48 am
Too many people have lost their eternal, spritual perspective, which is a sad statement on this hedonist society. I am amused at all the liberals who expect those of us here to be so adversely affected if Obama is elected President and I can tell them that many here at B4V have a strong grasp of a spiritual truth, and Obama’s election will have zero impact on my, and their, spiritual joys.
October 7th, 2008 at 9:16 am
In God we trust. God help us. Healthcare will have the same result as affirmative action loans. Socialism, enjoy!
http://www.ibdeditorials.com/IBDArticles.aspx?id=308185654524278
October 7th, 2008 at 9:30 am
I will not stand for neo cons hiding behind spirituality. You and your representatives brought about this financial mess.
I don’t believe in a higher being, but do believe in helping my fellow man. Not like you guys who have spent the last 8 years helping a few fellow men to large fortunes at the expense of the rest of us.
October 7th, 2008 at 10:10 am
The pope yapped about money not being important from the Vatican (a huge palace). He was holding a huge golden staff and was wearing some pretty extravagant clothing. Talk about sending mixed messages. Is it any wonder why the church is losing power?
Never fear though, I’m sure god will fill that belly of yours when it comes down to a house payment or food for that month…..
October 7th, 2008 at 10:12 am
” You and your representatives brought about this financial mess.”
Unfortunately, Reid, Schumer, Pelosi and Barney Frank are our representatives. So were Jimmy Carter and Bill Clintoon. And the Democrats in Manhattan did become very rich. Thanks for you confirmation of this scandal.
http://www.ibdeditorials.com/IBDArticles.aspx?id=308185654524278
October 7th, 2008 at 10:50 am
WhatChange
Not good enough. This site formerly known as Blogs for Bush has supported George W for the last 8 years. He has spent those years making sure that nothing got in the way of corporate greed.
Fortunately for me and not so for you, all the polls suggest the American people understand who is to blame. Since the economy became the number one issue voters have been leaving your particular sinking ship in droves.
In the past while I have not agreed with much on this site you have all at least stuck to your guns. The pathetic backsliding over the last few weeks pretending that Bush’s excesses were not backed by you is nauseating. (Have some back bone and at least go down with a bit of honour)
October 7th, 2008 at 10:52 am
edward,
I am sorry you don’t believe in God and it’s hard to believe that you don’t considering the complexity and energy of everything around you. It reveals a high level of ignorance and narcissism.
Secondly, I didn’t mention the financial crisis at all, and I hardly use my Faith to hide from it. I have no idea where you came to that conclusion. It must be the ignorance thing.
October 7th, 2008 at 10:54 am
edward sweetie,
Bush urged congress to look into Fannie and Freddie on 17 seperate occassions going back to 2003. I will post the evidence for you if you’d like, but want to spare your embarrasment if possible.
October 7th, 2008 at 10:55 am
>i>all the polls suggest the American people understand who is to blame.
Which is exactly why Mark Noonan is all of a sudden saying, “Hey, c’mon, we don’t need to worry about this stuff. Let it go, OK? Think about more Jesusy stuff instead.”
October 7th, 2008 at 11:05 am
neo con
Firstly you are extremely rude.
Secondly I was referencing the original article and not you in particular the use of the term neo con was in reference to many that frequent this site not you in particular.
I object simply to a group of people that have espoused constantly that any attempt to reign in the market is tantamount to communism, now turning round and saying it is all the fault of non believers.
Can I also just say that neither of our personal beliefs are relevant but I did not attempt to belittle yours.
October 7th, 2008 at 11:17 am
talkingpoints
Yes he did but that action late in the day hardly absolves him of any blame.
sweetie.
October 7th, 2008 at 11:28 am
“I object simply to a group of people that have espoused constantly that any attempt to reign in the market is tantamount to communism”
You have your tinfoil hat on. Republicans have attempted to reign in the market, McCain and Bush. Liberal Democrats blocked those efforts everytime! Like McCain stated yesterday, if you state a lie often enough, as you are doing, people will believe it? Dems will, neocons won’t. You are a liar. How’s the truth for being rude to a liar?
October 7th, 2008 at 12:45 pm
The word Liar again is a little strong but not unexpected.
McCain and Bush have not tried to reign in the market if they wanted to they could have done anytime in the six years the Republicans had control of Congress and the presidency they didn’t (I do not want to hear your excuses).
I will not accuse you of being a liar as I have no need to get personal.
October 7th, 2008 at 12:53 pm
Amazing. Simply amazing. May you be seated at the right hand of the father Mark.
Wow…
You know, I can see Mark, neocon, Jeremiah, JS, A-10, Ms. Kim, and the other zeolots all seated around Jesus. Sharing the Eucharist. What a vision.
Jesus would be patting you on your head, extolling the example you have lead in your mortal lives.
Yesserriee bubba! You betcha! Doggone it.
Give yourselves a great big pat on the back.
October 7th, 2008 at 1:11 pm
Mr. Stubbs,
I found nothing at all “rude” about Neocon’s response to you. What I do find rude is your ability to espouse with “certainty” your proclaiming to be an “atheist”, which is what Neocon rightfully pointed out to you in post #9.
Make no mistake, friend, it is the heigth of arrogance to stand up in the presence of an all-powerful Creator who reigns forever Supreme and not have the spine enough to humble ourselves before Him.
A few verses that I hope you will take interest enough to read if you have a Bible…
Ecclesiasties 3:11.
Psalm 91:11-12.
James 5:16.
Nehemiah 9:6.
Psalm 8:4.
Romans 3:10-11.
Romans 3:23, 6:23.
John 3:16.
1 John 1:9.
John 14:6.
Acts 4:12.
Ephesians 2:8-9.
1Corinthians 2:9.
October 7th, 2008 at 2:51 pm
So my simple statement of belief or lack off is rude.
But him calling a total stranger ignorant is just what good manners.
I don’t want to get into a row here over religion, as that is a question of personal preference. (or at least it used to be)
The simple fact remains that for republicans to hold their hands up and claim the economic crisis is nothing to do with them, and the fault of the non religious is not acceptable and neo con not true.
October 7th, 2008 at 3:12 pm
Interesting thread.
It wasnt too long ago that Retired Spook and Neocon were boasting all the time about how well they were doing financially.
If I remember correctly ‘A captain of industry’ was bandied about quite a bit from one of our resident neocons. ;)
Today however..those same guys are now pious and dont care about money.
Interesting.
October 7th, 2008 at 3:14 pm
Deleted - off topic.
October 7th, 2008 at 3:26 pm
Mark, nobody I know ascribes to Obama any kind of superhuman ability. That is largely an invention of the right, as they have no Reagan to worship these days and are quick to impute their own attributes to others. Most of my friends see Obama as a sensible and intelligent man with a concern for ordinary people and a natural gift for statesmanship that our nation could use right now.
The lesser Mr. Bush, on the other hand, was practically deified by the right. In 2003 Noemie Emery began a paean in the Weekly Standard thusly: “I love George W. Bush. I worship the man.” It becomes increasingly nauseating. http://www.weeklystandard.com/Content/Public/Articles/000/000/003/345dcbff.asp
I can’t count how many times I’ve read or heard conservative Republicans suggest that God elevated George W. Bush to office. Heavens, you even had a blog where his saviour-like qualities were extolled constantly. I would think you might be a little embarrassed for all that by now.
Obama puts his trust in God and so do I. I’m very comfortable entrusting the reins of civic authority to someone who sees himself as a sinner saved by grace, moreover someone who knows what the separation of powers means.
Barack Obama is no spoiled scion of a military family who feels he is owed the presidency as recompense for all his sufferings. He has earned this moment by perspicacity, talent and plain hard work.
October 7th, 2008 at 3:38 pm
“I’m very comfortable entrusting the reins of civic authority to someone who sees himself as a sinner saved by grace, moreover someone who knows what the separation of powers means.”
I concur, very well said sir.
October 7th, 2008 at 3:38 pm
“The simple fact remains that for republicans to hold their hands up and claim the economic crisis is nothing to do with them”
Nancy Pelosi and Barney Frank are Republicans? Liar.
October 7th, 2008 at 4:02 pm
Whatchange
So what if they are not republicans.
Can you genuinely not see that the problems we now face date back further than the last two years? Of course you can.
Please refrain from calling me a lair just because I do not agree with your frankly ridiculous analysis. Name calling reflects badly on you and your value set.
October 7th, 2008 at 5:10 pm
“Can you genuinely not see that the problems we now face date back further than the last two years? Of course you can.”
Yes I can!
Jimmy Carter
Bill Clintoon
Barney Frank
Chris Dodd
Nancy Pelosi
October 7th, 2008 at 5:13 pm
It wasn’t too long ago that Retired Spook and Neocon were boasting all the time about how well they were doing financially.
A little hyperbole there, Bill? I recall mentioning a couple years ago that I had developed a pretty good investment strategy, but I don’t recall “boasting about it all the time”. Could you provide a link or links to those comments?
BTW, I don’t have a great deal of empathy for anyone who was either too greedy or too short-sighted to see this mess coming at least 18 months ago. I’ve made some terrible financial decisions over the course of my life, but bailing out of equities in April, 2007, was not one of them.
October 7th, 2008 at 5:18 pm
!999 article NYT
http://query.nytimes.com/gst/fullpage.html?res=9C0DE7DB153EF933A0575AC0A96F958260&sec=&spon=&pagewanted=1
October 7th, 2008 at 5:20 pm
1999 article fron NYT.
http://query.nytimes.com/gst/fullpage.html?res=9C0DE7DB153EF933A0575AC0A96F958260&sec=&spon=&pagewanted=1
October 7th, 2008 at 7:28 pm
Aitch,
It was never important - but we were all blinded by it.
You really need to get off your high horse.
October 7th, 2008 at 8:51 pm
Great. This does not convince me at all that McCain is the right choice for America.
Should it?
(Oh, right, Obama is a Muslim and hates our God, wanting us to gay marry and abort babies).
October 7th, 2008 at 8:58 pm
fool,
You need a course in reading comprehension.
October 7th, 2008 at 9:06 pm
I do?
Please elaborate.
BTW, do you honestly expect to convince me?
(I’m hopeless to you. Sorry.)
October 7th, 2008 at 9:07 pm
I just stated what is absolutely and indisputable true. This piece doesn’t convince me to vote McCain.
Why do you take offense?
October 7th, 2008 at 9:35 pm
You really need to get off your high horse.
The irony is overwhelming.
October 8th, 2008 at 12:50 am
“My house was worth $400,000, now its worth about $225,000″
Good news Mark. McCain has plan where the federal government can by your loan, then you can renegotiate at the new value of your home — at the diminished value of your home. Quite the windfall there.
No wonder you’re voting for McCain.
October 8th, 2008 at 9:33 am
Sew do you ever look in the mirror and ask the question am I for real.
You are saying that the following are to blame for the economic turmoil.
Jimmy Carter
Bill Clintoon
Barney Frank
Chris Dodd
Nancy Pelosi
You cannot think of one leading Republican in this period that in anyway bears any responsibility for the current crisis.
Fortunately your sort of partisan lunacy is sending voters into the Obama camp in droves.
I know you are upset that the American public are seeing your side for what it is but seriously take your head out of the sand.
October 8th, 2008 at 5:21 pm
In God We Trust…Obama we don’t