The parable in today’s Gospel has a crooked steward who is commended by his master for being prudent, or clever, trying to protect himself. Jesus wanted us to be just as clever in serving the Lord. Let’s look at the first two readings and how they challenge us to do more.
The reading from Amos talks about those “who trample upon the needy and destroy the poor” (Amos 8:4). The challenge here is to ask yourself, “What do I do for the poor?” Most parishes have organizations to help the needy and are happy to get volunteers. Do you ever think of praying for the poor?
Speaking of prayer, our second reading also challenges us to do more. Paul recommends prayers for “kings and for all in authority” (1 Timothy 2:2). It’s easy to pray for friends and family; how much time do we give to prayers for government leaders and executives? Paul reminds us that God wants everyone to be saved (1 Timothy 2:4), sinners as well as saints, terrorists and embezzlers, atheists and agnostics. I’ll bet you don’t spend much time praying for the “bad guys.” Yet Jesus said, “Love your enemies. Pray for those who hurt you” (Matthew 5:44). I can’t say I’ve ever heard anyone say that was their favorite Bible passage. But if Jesus expects more from those who love him, who are we to let him down?
Tom Schmidt