25TH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME, YEAR C

Amos 8:4-7

Psalm 112 (113)

1Timothy 2:1-8

Luke 16:1-13

PRAISING DISHONESTY? 

Today’s readings may appear disparate in their themes, but they are interconnected. From the prophet Amos’ preaching against social injustice, we are led through St Paul’s exhortation to pray for those in authority to the appeal of Jesus to make good use of material goods. Indeed, the parable of the crafty steward is one of the most difficult parables in the gospel accounts. This notwithstanding, few points for meditation are worth noting: 

First, the master praises his steward not because of his mismanagement but because of his prudence. Likewise, Jesus invites his disciples to make friends for themselves with dishonest wealth. By so doing, he does not praise the dishonesty of the steward but his skill in dealing with material goods: faced with impending dismissal, he cancelled important debts to win the sympathy and friendship of the debtors. He was clever in his dishonesty. He demonstrated that he regarded money as a means and not as an end. And this is the adequate attitude we should have towards money and material goods.

Second, Jesus describes wealth as "dishonest" because of how it can bring out distorted values in people. In fact, the inordinate pursuit of money can make people selfish, leading them to take advantage of others and to treat others as objects. Money becomes an idol. This parable invites us therefore to be 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. Let us remember, if one is trustworthy (faithful) in little things, he could be entrusted with greater things. 

Third, 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 give them a special attention. 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 exploited and oppressed instead of being cared for. Some political and even religious leaders use their people for their own selfish ambitions; hence, the misappropriation of funds, the widespread corruption and self-serving tax evasion that characterize our institutions. 

As such, each of us is called to change his attitude towards money and wealth, to pray for our leaders so that they may promote peace and social justice. May the Lord bless and keep all of us. Amen