September 17-18

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

Today we have another parable by which the Lord challenges us to think deeply about our future.  Whenever we consider the days ahead, especially in difficult financial situations, we hope that we have prudently planned for our security.  In these uncertain times who has not wondered about their investments for retirement or funds to sustain family and self? If we glean a lesson from the shrewd steward in today’s Gospel maybe we can rest comfortably about our future.

First it is important to recognize that we are all stewards.  When we consider our earthly possessions we must ask ourselves, “have I fashioned this out of nothing; was it my mind that brought it into being?” Perhaps we cooperated in its manufacture but when we honestly consider it was it not God Who provided the intellect, the material and the purpose?  So everything is ultimately a gift from God and we have been entrusted with it.  The Lord has indeed entrusted us with not only physical goods but spiritual as well. In both instances, we are called to be generous.  A regular practice of our faith is the giving of alms, and on the spiritual level we share our faith with family, friends and strangers.  This is the mark of a good steward.  

The fellow in the parable was preparing for his future since he was about to be sacked.  He was out to save his skin.  We, on the other hand, must be out to save our soul.  Let us admire his prudence but not his dishonesty.

Next week I shall be on my annual retreat.  Father John, a colleague of Father Dominic will be here to assist with Masses and sick calls.

With Blessings,

Father Langan