1He also said to the disciples, "There was a rich man who had a steward, and charges were brought to him that this man was wasting his goods. 2And he called him and said to him, `What is this that I hear about you? Turn in the account of your stewardship, for you can no longer be steward.' 3And the steward said to himself, `What shall I do, since my master is taking the stewardship away from me? I am not strong enough to dig, and I am ashamed to beg. 4I have decided what to do, so that people may receive me into their houses when I am put out of the stewardship.' 5So, summoning his master's debtors one by one, he said to the first, `How much do you owe my master?' 6He said, `A hundred measures of oil.' And he said to him, `Take your bill, and sit down quickly and write fifty.' 7Then he said to another, `And how much do you owe?' He said, `A hundred measures of wheat.' He said to him, `Take your bill, and write eighty.' 8The master commended the dishonest steward for his shrewdness; for the sons of this world are more shrewd in dealing with their own generation than the sons of light.
This was a tough one. The steward acting out of self interest and dishonesty is commended by the master. Then Jesus makes the point that people of “this world” often show resourcefulness in planning for their future. I guess the implication is that those interested in the kingdom need to show resourcefulness in planning that future. What might that look like? Forgiving others. Giving of oneself out of gratitude for what one already has been bestowed. Enduring personal sacrifice to pursue the right path. Making time for God through prayer and discernment. As followers of Christ, we are called to use our resources wisely in preparation for the “true” wealth of the Kingdom.
ReplyDeleteYour reflection on this parable draws out its essence beautifully. The steward’s resourcefulness, though morally questionable, serves as a mirror urging Jesus' followers to be equally strategic and intentional in preparing for eternity, but with integrity. Your response captures the proactive, sacrificial qualities that Jesus asks of His followers: forgiving, giving generously, and aligning our decisions with gratitude for the blessings God has already given.
DeleteJust as the steward took decisive action to secure his future, we too are called to act thoughtfully in nurturing a life centered on God's values. By prioritizing forgiveness, generosity, and sacrifice—and consistently making space for prayer—we actively cultivate a relationship with God that goes beyond material concerns. Your point about giving out of gratitude for God's blessings beautifully echoes the idea that we are stewards, entrusted to use our gifts and resources to honor God and support others.
This parable can indeed be challenging, but you've highlighted how it inspires a life of intentional discipleship: engaging in acts that reflect love, humility, and dedication to God's Kingdom. In essence, like the steward's foresight, our intentional decisions build the foundation of our spiritual "future," preparing us for the true wealth found in God’s eternal presence.