Romans 16:3-9,16,22-27 Psalm 144(145):2-5,10-11 Luke 16:9-15
SERVING GOD WITH MY ENTIRETY
We have been reading the apostolic exhortation of St. Paul to the Roman Christian communities, and today we conclude our reading. This letter is considered his most significant doctrinal work. Paul eagerly writes to greet the communities he hopes to visit in Rome and to share his mission to preach the gospel of Christ to the world.
He emphasizes faith in Jesus for salvation and the need for a virtuous life (Romans 2:5-11). Romans 8:13 shows that justification by faith requires obedience to the Holy Spirit, and Romans 11:22 warns that one can lose this justification by turning away from the Spirit and rejecting Christ.
Paul succeeds not because he’s greater, but because we share the same calling: to love Jesus fully and proclaim Him to all. Living in the Spirit means counting everything as loss compared to Christ.
Serving God means not serving another master—like money. Today’s gospel reminds us that priorities matter: money is a good servant but a bad master. In our money-driven society, many resort to theft, fraud, violence, and terrorism, which lead to ruin.
Remember, God invites us into His divine life. As children of God, we must fulfill our responsibilities and serve Him with all our heart, mind, body, and soul.
Lord Jesus, be the center of my heart; be the master of my soul. Mother Mary, help me!
Let us pray: Help me resist greed and serve like St. Joseph, working with integrity rather than for money. Money should serve us, and we will use it well, in Jesus’ name. Amen.
Give generously and help those in need. God bless you.