Readings: Philippians 3:17-4:1, Ps. 122:1-5, Luke 16:1-8
“Make friends for yourselves using dishonest wealth so that when it is gone, they may welcome you into the eternal homes.” (Luke 16:9)
In his letter to the Philippians, St. Paul admonishes us today to follow his example: “Join in imitating me, and mark those who so walk as you have an example in us.” St. Paul’s boldness in asking people to imitate him shows that he has nothing to hide and is practising what he preached.
- Today, Jesus gave us the example of a steward who saved his head and called his master’s debtors one after the other to reduce their debt. This is an example that Jesus sets before us, an example of how we should be determined at all costs to do whatever it takes to make heaven.
- By reducing their debt profiles, the steward was giving away what ought to have come to him as a commission for the loan. He would inconvenience himself and let go of his share because of the greater good of having people welcome him after his removal from office.
- Like the steward who had to let go of what would have come to him as profit, Jesus is telling us today to make sacrifices, to let go of the vain things and fleeting pleasures of life for the greater good of making heaven. Our attachment to wealth and material possessions often obstacles the practice of our Christian virtues.
- Jesus told us that we cannot serve two masters, nor can we serve both God and mammon (Matthew 6:24). As St. Paul mentions in today’s first reading, to love the world is to live as enemies of the cross of Christ.
- St. Paul also mentions another quality of the enemies of the cross of Christ: they glory in their shame. We live in a world that has its values turned upside down. Some time ago, I saw a news article about a bishop who reprimanded a priest for preaching that abortion and homosexuality are sins.
- It is possible to identify as a Christian and yet live as an enemy of the cross. How? By aligning with the standards of the world. Do not be afraid to follow the narrow path or be persecuted for righteousness. As Paul says in the last line of our first reading: “Stand firm in the Lord.”
Let us pray: Almighty, ever-living God, help us to imitate good examples and be inspired daily by the Saints. We ask this through Our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God forever and ever. Amen.
Be Happy. Live Positive. Have Faith. It is well with you. May God’s abundant blessings be upon us all. (Friday of week 31 in Ordinary Time. Bible Study: Philippians 3:17-4:1, Ps. 122:1-5, Luke 16:1-8).
@Rev. Fr. Evaristus E. Abu