Filed by Steve Barrett
There is more than one way to get to heaven, but this is a great way, Warren Buffett said after his announcement that he plans to give billions of dollars of his fortune to charity.
Eek.
Let’s let a brief passage from Mark 12 answer that horrible boast by Mr. Buffett, who will remain a multibillionaire even after making his donations:
Jesus sat down opposite the place where the offerings were put and watched the crowd putting their money into the temple treasury. Many rich people threw in large amounts. But a poor widow came and put in two very small copper coins, worth only a fraction of a penny.
Calling his disciples to him, Jesus said, I tell you the truth, this poor widow has put more into the treasury than all the others. They all gave out of their wealth; but she, out of her poverty, put in everything — all she had to live on.’
I have no clue what faith Mr. Buffett professes, but it seems to me to be poor in spirit (and Spirit) indeed if it proffers a passage to heaven based on high-profile, non-sacrificial charity.
E-mail Steve Barrett at sbarrett@timesfreepress.com.
