Idolatry takes on a multitude of shapes, but they always go against God. Idolatry does not exist only in the form of worshipping images of paper, clay, wood, metal or material object, as is the practice of a number of religions.

There are those who idolise their children, loved ones, people in general or even themselves. Others may idolise their profession, social position and leisure pastimes, putting these things above God in their lives.

Whatever form idolatry takes substitutes the Creator for the creature. Yet when an idol becomes material wealth or money, it is the most hostile form of idolatry against God. In this case, the Eternal is substituted by the perishable.

In an objective and quite simple way, the Lord teaches: “No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate one and love the other, or else he will be loyal to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and Mammon” (Matthew 6:24).

Mammon is the god of the material riches.

Abundant life is a right of all those who follow the Son of God. Nevertheless, this abundance should never rule over God’s servants. Money is a good servant, but a cruel master.

Money must be seen as manure. Its sole purpose is to be spread around for the common good.

The spirit of Mammon imposes greediness on his servants. That causes spiritual blindness, which neutralises the understanding of faith, making it impossible for those attached to material goods to gain access to spiritual wealth, i.e. eternal salvation.

In order to be in total communion with God, on the way to eternal salvation, it is necessary to give up servitude to Mammon.