THEOSISJohn Chrysostom
Observe the devotion of this farmer and the purpose behind his acquisition of the land. It is noted that he constructed an altar and invoked the name of the God of Israel. He purchased the land solely to offer thanksgivings to the Lord, who is accessible to all. This noble man, who existed prior to the law, serves as a model for those who are under grace, encouraging them to refrain from the frantic pursuit of wealth. Tell me, why do you burden yourself with such a mass of thorns and unwittingly pass on both a source and an opportunity for every kind of evil to your children? Do you not realize that the Lord cares for your son even more than you do; yet, in your desire to protect him, you are actually setting the stage for the potential ruin of his soul?
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Are you unaware that youth is inherently fragile and inclined towards wrongdoing? As greater riches come to a youth, they are often even more fiercely drawn into various forms of sin. Just as fire, upon encountering a flammable object, blazes forth intensely, so too does a young person, when faced with a heap of wealth, ignite a desire that can consume their entire being.
Can a youth preoccupied with riches contemplate purity, flee from immorality, engage in virtuous deeds, or pursue anything of a spiritual nature? Do you not heed the words of Christ: “The cares of this age and the deceitfulness of riches choke the word, and it becomes unfruitful” (Matt. 13:22)? He likens these concerns to thorns, illustrating that just as thorns prevent seeds from sprouting by suffocating their growth, worldly distractions inhibit the spiritual potential within a soul, drowning it instead of allowing it to thrive. The term “deceitfulness of riches” aptly describes wealth, as it often brings illusions rather than genuine benefits. What value is found in accumulating vast amounts of resources or money? They claim that such acquisitions produce happiness, but what kind of joy is this? Is it not true that it often leads to premature grief and myriad troubles? I do not even address the punishment that may await; in this life alone, the vice of greed offers no real joy but rather is fraught with ongoing worries and distress. It’s not merely the turmoil of the sea that affects the soul but also the restless thoughts and passions that foster discontent with oneself and others. When someone loses even a portion of their wealth—an event we commonly witness due to treachery or injustice—their existence becomes intolerable.
What sorrow can be equated with those who act against their interests, hoarding riches at the expense of their spiritual well-being? However, let us shift our focus back to the account of the righteous man and see what follows. It is said that he erected an altar in a portion of the field and called upon the name of the God of Israel; subsequently, he wished to establish a residence in Shechem.