For millennia there has been a debate about whether there is a conflict between making a profit and faith. Is it, for instance, moral to charge interest rates or is lending exploitation of the poor? To put it more simply, can you be wealthy and spiritual at the same time or do you have to lead a life of austerity to be spiritual?

The Easter weekend provides an opportunity to reflect again on these wrenching topics, on what is important to us and what really matters. Last year, demonstrators on Wall Street and outside St Paul’s Cathedral in London protested against what was seen as unacceptable capitalist behaviour, especially by the banks. This may have quietened down, but the core issues have not been solved.

While there is something to be said in favour of living simpler lives, there is no conflict between faith and turning a profit. It is fine to make a living; we are meant to enjoy abundant lives. The conflict comes when we separate ethics and economic progress and when we equate the latter with happiness.