Psalm 112(113)
1Timothy 2:1-8
Luke 16:1-13
MONEY IN THE TRIBUNAL OF SOCIAL JUSTICE
Today’s readings appear to be disparate in their themes. From the prophet Amos’ preaching against social injustice, we are led through St Paul’s exhortation to pray for those in authority to an appeal by Jesus to make good use of material goods. In effect, the parable of the crafty and unfaithful steward is one of the most difficult parables in the gospel accounts. This notwithstanding, few points for meditation are worth noting:
(1) The master praises his steward not because of his mismanagement but his prudence. Likewise, in telling his disciples to make friends for themselves with dishonest wealth, Jesus does not praise the dishonesty of this steward but his skill in dealing with material goods. His skill lies in his ability to use his position to make friends: faced with impending dismissal, he cancels important debts to win the sympathy and friendship of the debtors. He was clever in his dishonesty. He showed that he regarded money as a means and not as a goal. And this is the just attitude we should have towards money and material goods.
(2) Money or wealth is described by Jesus as "dishonest" because of how it brings out distorted values in people. In fact, the inordinate pursuit of money can make people selfish, leading them to take advantage of others, to treat them as objects and to be unfaithful to God. This parable invites us therefore to be generous and responsible in the management of our resources. Money and our material resources will not accompany us to heaven. Thus, one must recognize their limits and use them for the good of others. Possessions come with responsibility. If one is trustworthy (faithful) in little things, he could be entrusted with greater things.
(3) Responsible and generous management of money and material goods will bring us closer to the poor, the powerless and the marginalized in our communities. And this is what the social doctrine of the Catholic Church calls “the preferential option of the poor”. Unfortunately, as in the time of the prophet Amos, the poor are rather exploited and oppressed instead of being cared for. Some political and even religious leaders use their people and faithful for their own selfish desires and maximize their profits. Hence, the mismanagement and misappropriation of funds, the widespread corruption and self-serving tax evasion that characterize our institutions.
Therefore, each of us is called to change his attitude towards money and wealth and also pray for our leaders so that they may be wise in promoting peace and justice in our society. May the Lord bless and keep all of us. Amen
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