Readings: Romans 16:3-9,16,22-27, Ps. 145:2-5,10-11& Luke 16:9-15
“If then you have not been faithful in the unrighteous mammon, who will entrust to you the true riches?” (Luke 16:11)
In today’s Gospel passage, Jesus, commenting on the parable of the dishonest steward, teaches us some lessons about money. First, Jesus warns against worshipping money: “No one can have two masters.” Do not turn money into a god. Like any tool, money is meant to be used, not worshipped. Instead of praying for more money, pray to become more valuable. Money will follow you if you contribute to society or solve problems for others.
Second, Jesus teaches us that money is fleeting: “If then you have not been faithful in the unrighteous mammon, who will entrust to you the true riches?” (Luke 16:11). Jesus describes money as an “unrighteous mammon.” Money is not “true riches” because it does not follow us beyond the grave. Some musicians and other creative artists are deceased, yet their works continue to earn money online. They still have money in their names, but cannot spend it.
Third, Jesus teaches us to avoid telling lies and other dishonest practices for the sake of money: “He who is dishonest in a very little is dishonest also in much… And if you have not been faithful with that which is another’s, you will not be entrusted with what is your own.” (Luke 16:10-12) Someone once said, “If you lose money, you lose nothing. If you lose friends, you lose something, but if you lose your character (perhaps, in a bid to make money), you have lost everything.” If people cannot trust you with money, what else is left?
Fourth, Jesus teaches us to manage money wisely by giving it away: “Make friends for yourselves using unrighteous mammon, so that when it fails they may receive you into the eternal habitations” (Luke 16:9). If you have taken care of your basic needs, forsake your wants (luxuries) by showing kindness to those who can never repay you.
Fifth, Jesus teaches us to respect people as human beings rather than based on how much money they have: “For what is exalted among men is an abomination in the sight of God.” (Luke 16:15). Our society only respects those who have money, regardless of how they made it. In Nigeria today, having much money means becoming a hero, a source of inspiration, or even a saint. The man of God will readily bow to you if you donate heavily. This is why we have lost our moral values; we now exalt abominations.
Let us pray: Almighty and merciful God, by whose gift your faithful offer you right and praiseworthy service, grant, we pray, that we may hasten without stumbling to receive the things you have promised. 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. (Saturday of week 31 in Ordinary Time. Liturgical Colour: Green. Bible Study: Romans 16:3-9,16,22-27, Ps. 145:2-5,10-11& Luke 16:9-15)
@Rev. Fr. Evaristus E. Abu