3 of 28

Write now Article Tools

Page 2 of 2

was given. He was supposed to work for his master's best interests, but instead he was sloppy and he squandered or mismanaged his master's possessions.

Just as the prodigal son squandered his own inheritance and the steward wasted his master's property, both of them get credits: one for true repentance and the unjust steward for his worldly wisdom. The material reasons of the world and the wisdom of this age are combined for the good of spiritual teachings.

The steward's dishonesty is definitely not commended. What is commended is the way he dealt with his problem. When faced in a dilemma or in deep crisis, the steward acted shrewdly to take care of himself. It is the same thing in Christian discipleship when one needs to be resourceful and creative to make ends meet. He/She may need to figure out the best way to do what needs to be done. This is the perspective of discipleship being able to cope with difficulties, to surpass the challenges of life. Which is why, the steward is compared to the "children of this world/light" who are wise and resourceful to get on in life. Jesus was telling the crowd that the time would come when they also would be held accountable for their actions like the finances on how they use them and help others who are in need. He was telling the Jews to use their wealth to make friends. What made him say that was because Jews had all the means and power in society. They were exclusive in many ways. And he said to them that they have to deal situations courageously and wisely. He showed them the same kind of grace and forgiveness to others.

We have countless examples of people who chalked up in history because of their great contributions and exemplary lives. But I have one in mind FDR (Franklin Delano Roosevelt), known for his phrase "New Deal," the predecessor of Harry Truman as president (1945). Pearl Harbor was attacked at his time and life in America was turned upside down by the Wall Street Crash of October 1921. However, he was hit by polio in August 1921. He was paralyzed from the waist down. He could only walk through leg braces and walking canes. But he kept his body in subjection in order to perform his office. I think his example spoke about a head ruling a paralyzed body and a head managing one. It was the principle of service and commitment to faith.

Learn more about this author, Mark Escobar.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

• << previous page
• 1
• 2

Add your voice

Know something about How to grow in a spiritual way in your day to day life?
We want to hear your view. Write now!