To some people, religious holidays are a pain in the neck. Holy days interrupt the flow of business. They keep employees from work. The market’s demands remain the same, but the rhythm of work is interrupted. If you run a business, holy days get in the way.

To some people, religious values are a pain in the neck. If our goal in life is to make money, we don’t want to hear about giving to the poor. We cannot keep money if we give it away. We will treat employees fairly only if it helps improve the bottom line. We will use human beings for fun or advancement, but not with respect for their lives and persons.

At the time of Amos the prophet, the corrupt business world treated religion with impatience. “When will the Sabbath be over,” people wondered on that holy day, “that we may display our wheat?” Business leaders took advantage of the poor and cheated customers. They had no use for religion. They desired only profit.

We fall into the same sin when work takes precedence over prayer, and when profit trumps charity. Religion is designed to ease our pain, not to cause it. It strives to lighten the burden of all so that all can rejoice together in the love of God.

Written by Paul Turner. Liturgy Training Publications
Copyright 2003, Archdiocese of Chicago