PHIL 4:10-19
LK 16:9-15
In our world today, we are constantly bombarded with news that has many stories of both abundance and deprivation – billionaires (not just millionaires anymore!) with multiple yachts, houses on many continents, watches they wear on their wrists that are worth more than a year’s salary for most people. At the same time, we daily encounter those who are unhoused, that lack the basic needs for survival, for whom the price of a cup of coffee might sustain them for days. And yet, Paul reminds us that at some level, we are all equal. We receive abundance from God.
We cannot outweigh God in generosity.
The grace of God is free to us at all times without preparation, without fitness, without money and sacrifice. In other words, God is good at all times and when we feel deprived that perhaps we are privileged. Giving is a sort of dying. Self denial is of the essence for a greater reward ahead.
In today’s gospel, Jesus continues the theme of great reversal that shakes the day-to-day life habits and tells us that the only way to use money is to give it away for something worthwhile, that is, sharing and service of others especially the needy.
As we come to meet the needy today the question is are we ready to share? Do we really believe that in giving we receive? Many have forsaken Christ and no longer walk with him because of money, power and fame will you? Our answer will determine whether we want to share in the banquet of heaven or we want to keep holding on to the things that will not last forever. Money can feed addiction but self-denial can help us break up with them. We might find it hard we may often fail but with God all things are possible.
Fr Osho
