By Amala William csc –
Readings: Rom 16:3-9, 16, 22-27; Lk 16:9-15
The starting verses of today’s gospel encourage us to accumulate unrighteous wealth through which we can gain friends. This thought itself can be scandalous for believers of Christ. Jesus wants us to understand the difference between God and wealth. He gives us instructions to use our perishable wealth for the welfare of the poor which would help us grow in Godliness.He emphasizes a shrewd approach to deal with the materialistic belongings of this world.
Jesus never suggested to accumulate wealth of this world, instead he indicates us to cultivate faithfulness and honesty. By amassing wealth in this world, we would be able to satisfy our sensual pleasures but will not be able to experience happiness. We have options before us, either to serve God or wealth. If we choose to serve wealth that is equal to unrighteousness and ungodliness, we need to share with the poor and the needy. We should act as stewards of wealth and not let it be a master over us.
In the present times, we are in a web of illusion and the world through its advertising normalizes wrong and unethical things. In place of wealth, anything could be placed, which still has the potential to take us away from God. At times, as a religious I compromise my personal prayer with fulfilling my responsibilities, socializing, or worrying about things. We need to ask ourselves: What and whom do I prioritize before God?