Gospel Reflection for the 25th Sunday in Ordinary Time September 18th – Money, Money, Money…
No doubt we are all familiar with the phrase money is the root of all evil. However, this is not correct. In 1 Timothy 6.10, the phrase is actually the love of money is the root of all evil!
There is nothing g wrong with money itself. It is how we use, misuse or abuse money that causes problems for ourselves and others. How we use and spend our money says a lot about who we are and how we treat others.
When Jesus speaks to us, a reminder about the poor and the needy are always included. Through the words of the prophet of Amos in the first reading this Sunday, we are reminded and challenged not to abuse or cheat in any way those who are poor. Jesus continues this message in the gospel. He tells the parable which sounds like he is encouraging dishonesty. A servant who looks after his master’s property is accused of misusing it. He is sacked, but before he leaves he has to hand in his final account. He takes this time to rearrange his master’s account with those own him money. He reduces their debts and loans and by the time he is finished, the merchants end up owing him for his cleverness. When it mattered most, this clever steward wastes no time in taking immediate and practical action to safeguard his own future.
Jesus is not praising this man for his dishonesty and shrewdness, but for his skill in coping with a crisis quickly. Again, this in no way is encouraging and promoting the misuse of money. If this (dishonest) man can use his master’s money to ensure his own job, how much more will those who are honest use their money to promote and build the Kingdom. This is not saying that you can buy your way into the Kingdom. It is to recognise that if our money and wealth are used inappropriately or are not connected to the values of Jesus, the gospel and the Kingdom, then people suffer, usually the poor. Both Amos and Jesus speak about social justice and taking responsibility for our own actions. Our prayer life has to influence how we speak and behave. How we use money and treat each other says a lot about the quality of relationship with Jesus. If money talks, what do I hear my money saying to me?
- Michael Moore OMI
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