St. Basil's homilies on the subject of wealth and poverty, although delivered in the fourth century, remain utterly fresh and contemporary. Whether you possess great wealth or have modest means, at the heart of St. Basil's message stands the maxim: Simplify your life, so you have something to share with others.
While some patristic texts relate to obscure and highly philosophical questions, St. Basil's teachings on social issues are immediately understood and applicable. At a time when vast income disparity and overuse of limited environmental resources are becoming matters of increasing concern, St. Basil's message is more relevant now than ever before.
About the Author: C. Paul Schroeder is an independent scholar and translator of early patristic texts. He resides in Portland, Oregon.