great wealth

If flesh came into being because of spirit, it is wonderful. If spirit came into being because of the body, it is exceedingly wonderful. I am amazed that this great wealth has appeared in this poverty. --Jesus, The Gospel of Thomas

Learned articles, books, symposia, and conferences abound about whether the brain creates reality or reality creates the brain. Some folk say our spiritual nature is nothing more than a fluke of the chunk of meat we call the brain. Some folk say the brain and the entire meat package are called into existence by the spirit that we are.

Jesus didn't fall into taking sides with either argument. He said: "If flesh came into being because of spirit, it is wonderful. If spirit came into being because of the body, it is exceedingly wonderful." Both ways seemed mighty fine to him. He didn't want to stand around debating that all day. He goes right to the point, the focus more worthy of attention by saying: "I am amazed that this great wealth has appeared in this poverty."

When I reflect on it, it brings tears to my eyes. Tears of amazement. Amazed that I, dirt bag and monkey man that I am, am home to such a blazing light. A great wealth has appeared in the midst of this poverty.