💖 HOMILY - NOVEMBRE 10 💖

First Reading - Romans 15:14-21

Gospel - Luke 16:1-8

As Saint John Chrysostom said: “Faithfulness in little things is a big thing.” At times, we don't care for small opportunities we get, for the thought occurs to us that they count nothing. The readings of today emphasize that even small opportunities can do great deal.

In the first reading, Paul mentions about his dual missions, to Christians and Gentiles; to strengthen the Christians in their faith and; to preach good news to those who are still far from the knowledge of Christ. He asserts his role of priestly mission in the name of Jesus. The reading highlights the faithfulness and commitment of Paul to God's mission and his people.

In the gospel, Jesus mentions a parable of a dishonest steward who was caught for his dishonest works and got fired by the owner. The parable takes a twist, in the sense, Jesus seems to appreciate the shrewdness of the steward who, in order to win the friendship of his master's debtors, cut down their debts. Jesus picks this point to show the steward's ingenuity to win hospitality and friendship of others. The key point of the parable isn't concerned about the dishonesty of the steward but the shrewdness of the steward. Jesus demands the same shrewdness in dealing with our time, money, talents etc.

Dear friends, a small opportunity can do big things in our lives. The steward, in the gospel, had a little time to submit the account to the owner before he would be dismissed from his job but he made use of that little time for a greater purpose; he made use of his power/authority for a greater cause to win the friendship of people for himself. We are invited to make use of our gifts, time, wealth and talents, as they are with us for a short time, for a greater cause, to win friends rather than foes. Our future opportunities, in the eternal service of God, largely depend on our stewardship in handling the little opportunities we have had on earth. As Mother Teresa used to recommend, “Do little things with great love.” Let's handle our little opportunities with great care.

Paul recounts that he is fully concerned about the proclamation of the good news - for Christians to encourage them and for gentiles to proclaim the good news. He understands the importance of his gift for others and the gospel. We are invited today to use our gifts responsibly for a greater cause of others and the gospel. It's then we will be given a great reward when we will be giving account of our earthly life to God.