What is the lesson of Jesus’ parable of the rich man and the steward (Luke 16:1-13)? Jesus did not praise the steward for his dishonest behavior but for his shrewd foresight in relieving the debts of others who he believed would, in turn, treat him as a friend and show him mercy, kindness, and generosity in his time of great want and need. Jesus immediately followed this parable with an exhortation to his followers to make use of the world’s material goods, including “tainted money”, to relieve those who are indebted to us for the material and physical help we give them in their time of need and want. In the Scriptures generous giving refers to alms giving – the sharing of our financial and material resources with those in need (Luke 12:33). Those who receive alms from us become our friends because we are merciful to them in their time of need. And God who sees all, rewards those who are generous in helping others.
What is the enemy of generosity? It’s greed, the excessive desire for personal gain and security. However, we do not need to be afraid of being truly generous, because it does not impoverish the giver, but enriches that person a hundredfold! Our money, time, and possessions are precious resources and gifts from God. We can guard them jealously for ourselves alone, or allow the love of the Lord to guide us in making good use of them for the benefit of others, especially those in need.
Let us pray: Lord Jesus, all that I have is a gift from you. May I love you freely and generously with all that I possess. Help me to be a wise and faithful steward of the resources you put at my disposal, including the use of my time, money, health and possessions.
