Do you use every God-given talent that you have in fulfilling your mission in life? - Daily Reflections November 7,2014

GOOD OVER EVIL? NO BRAINER!

 

“For the children of this world are more prudent in dealing with their own generation than are the children of light” (Luke 16:8). This summarizes the message of the parable as told by Jesus.

       The New American Bible entitled this reading, “The Parable of the Dishonest Steward.” It would seem that Jesus was praising the steward’s “dishonesty.” How can Jesus tolerate, much more praise, dishonesty? If we examine the parable, Jesus was pointing out the shrewdness of the steward because of his impending disaster. Since he had committed a big mistake in the business entrusted to him, he was bound to lose his job and more. Thus, anticipating that he will be financially miserable, he went out and convinced his master’s debtors to pay less than what they owed. In the process, his master’s debtors would see that gesture as gratuity and goodwill. With that recognition, he may be able to ask favors from them in the future.

         Jesus wanted the “children of light”(the good ones) to adopt the shrewdness of the “children of this world”(the bad ones). In other words, in the same way that the children of the world are willing to use everything they have, including immoral ways, to secure their future, the “children of light” should also use every God-given talent and good ways to be in God’s favor. If evil is serious in its craft and determined to succeed, the good should also be equally, if not more, serious and determined to succeed. With God on our side, we are bound to succeed and achieve more.

       In the Philippines, there are many Filipinos who possess extraordinary skills and exemplary expertise, especially in scams and crimes of deception. Jesus expects the same from good people. If they will work as hard, they will achieve more. If good people will be lax, evil will easily triumph. God never abandons us, but we must do our part. If God is with us, evil cannot stand against us! Fr. Benny Tuazon

 

REFLECTION QUESTION: Do you use every God-given talent that you have in fulfilling your mission in life?

 

Lord, may I have the determination and perseverance to do good, no matter what.