Ebenezer Scrooge and Christ (Part 5)

I wanted to do try to come up with some sort of “Christmas theme” for my December posts and came up with this idea.  I got an old copy of the Charles Dickens’ classic, A Christmas Carol .  I was amazed at the parallels to the gospel.  So join along with me as we look for Christ in Dickens’ story.  (If say you “hum-bug” to this sort of post, join back up with us in January for more “traditional” postings.)

“I am sure he is very rich, Fred,” hinted Scrooge’s niece… “What of that, my dear?” said Scrooge’s nephew.  “His wealth is of no use to him.  He doesn’t do any good with it…I am sorry for him:  I couldn’t be angry with him if I tried.  Who suffers by his ill whims? Himself, always.” (Dickens, A Christmas Carol)  

^“Whoever loves money never has money enough; whoever loves wealth is never satisfied with his income.  I have seen a grievous evil under the sun: wealth hoarded to the harm of its owner.” (Eccl. 5:10,13) 

“His prosperity does not endure.  In the fullness of his plenty he will be cramped.” (Job 20:21-23)

Scrooge’s nephew shows up in the story once again with a unique perspective of wisdom and insight.  Throughout the story he seems to be able to see through Scrooge’s cantankerous demeanor.  Solomon had a similar ability to “see through” the actions of men.  The words: “wealth hoarded to the harm of its owner” are reminiscent of the nephew’s commentary: “Who suffers by his ill whims?  Himself, always.”  The greedy, covetous, and self-seeking man injures himself far more than any other.  Sure, those around him suffer from his discontent, displeasure, and general aura of orneriness, but the true victim of greed and selfishness is self.  Talk time this holiday season to reflect on the idea:  Is any of my lack of satisfaction self-inflicted?  What is the source of my dissappointment?  All has been given in Christ.  Let us make much of Him this holiday season.