For the millions of people around the world who can't afford to keep a roof over their heads, there is new hope.  A new technology has been developed to build an instant home within hours.  The product, called Grancrete, is a liquefied mixture of sand, ash, magnesium oxide and potassium phosphate.  When sprayed over a frame of Styrofoam, wood or metal, the mixture dries into a waterproof, fire-resistant structure that won't crack or buckle. 

Grancrete is three times as sturdy as concrete, is inexpensive and very flexible.  The manufacturers are now testing its ability to withstand hurricanes and earthquakes.  If it passes the test, it can be used for mass construction in undeveloped areas of the world, providing shelter for millions.

The eradication of poverty worldwide is one of the signs of the upcoming Redemption.  As described in Maimonides, (Laws of Kings chapter 12) "Goodness will flow greatly and all delicacies will be freely available like dust."  We will live in comfort, with no hunger or illness.

However, the improved standard of living is only a prelude to the real benefit of the Messianic Era.  In addition to material comforts, we will experience an expansion of our spiritual awareness.  We will be free from worldly cares, to be able to devote our time to developing our creative and spiritual side.  As Maimonides says, "The occupation of the entire world will be to know G-d."

The synthesis of worldly enjoyment with spiritual bliss represents G-d's ultimate plan and desire for creation.  Our sages tell us that G-d created the world because He desired a "dwelling in the lower realms."  While G-d can dwell in all worlds at once, from the loftiest spiritual heights to the lowest, mundane physical universe, He desires to make His home here, in our midst.  G-d's unlimited light can express itself more completely in a place of concealment, where we have to work to reveal G-d's presence, and use our freedom of choice to make this world into a place where G-d wants to be.

Building a home for G-d has been our responsibility ever since the Torah was given.  Each time we use a physical object to do a mitzvah, such as giving charity, we elevate that object and make it holy.  Our task is complete when every physical object in the world becomes permeated with holiness.

The Lubavitcher Rebbe, prophet of our generation, has assured us that the task of making the world into a home for G-d is nearing completion.  Very soon, G-d will no longer be "homeless," but will reveal Himself openly in our world.