Is there a bank account in heaven? If you read Scripture and take it literally, you almost have to think so. Over and over we read of instances where giving to the poor or doing some kind of good deed is treasure stored up in heaven.

Of course we don’t actually believe that, right? It’s a metaphor, right? Because if we say doing good deeds on earth is a way to create a solid 401k in heaven it all seems … well, a little self centered. Right?

Author Gary Anderson would argue that we’re looking at it the wrong way. He’d say there actually is a sort of bank account in heaven. No, he’s not saying Wells Fargo has that kind of reach. But he is saying we’ve lost the true historical understanding of the Christian faith when we don’t accept that our acts of charity here on earth have an eternal consequence.

Charity: The Place of the Poor in the Biblical Tradition lays out this argument fairly well. There are certainly aspects of the book I dislike, and I think he relies entirely too much on the Talmud and other non-mainstream resources. But his points are excellent and well worth considering when you develop an understanding of the purpose of giving to others in need.

Even if the theology is incorrect (and it might be), Anderson at least reminds us that for hundreds of years the Church believed this way. There is merit in understanding this and giving this perspective a fair hearing. Not only does it help us understand our history, but it honors our history by reflecting on the wisdom of those who went before us.

A good book that will provoke thoughts for any reader. Well worth reading.