This parable does not call us to imitate the steward’s dishonesty but his astuteness. He quickly grasps how desperate his situation is and immediately seeks a solution. Fr Adrian Graffy reflects.
Gospel Reflections
‘I have found my sheep that was lost’
These parables teach us about the joy of God at the repentance of the sinner – and that he forgives in an outstanding way. Could we do the same? Fr Adrian Graffy reflects.
‘Anyone who does not carry his cross cannot be my disciple’
In this reading Jesus’ stark language implies that if we want to be his disciples, we must prefer nothing and nobody to following him. Fr Adrian Graffy reflects.
‘The man who humbles himself will be exalted’
In this reading Jesus uses the situation to teach the right attitude to have as a guest and as a host, demonstrating his teaching through his own everyday behaviour. Fr Adrian Graffy reflects.
‘Many will try to enter and will not succeed’
In this reading Jesus makes clear that simply to have heard and known about him is not enough to save us – it is our response to his call that matters. Fr Adrian Graffy reflects.
‘I have come to bring fire to the earth’
Jesus’ blunt and challenging language in this reading conveys a profound truth, for the consequence of his preaching will be division, even within families. Fr Adrian Graffy reflects.
‘You too must stand ready’
In this reading Jesus encourages us all to be ready with our lamps lit to welcome the return of the master. Fr Adrian Graffy reflects.
‘A man’s life is not made secure by what he owns’
The lesson in each of today’s Scripture readings is of enormous relevance to the world of today, both developed and developing, in which desperate poverty is so often found alongside extraordinary wastefulness and extravagance. Fr Adrian Graffy reflects.
‘Ask, and it will be given to you’
In this reading Jesus teaches the disciples the Lord’s Prayer – and stresses the compassion and loving kindness of the Father. Fr Adrian Graffy reflects.
‘It is Mary who has chosen the better part’
The heart of the story in this reading lies in the contrast between the attitudes and actions of Mary and Martha. Mary somehow understands how precious the words of Jesus are. Everything else is of little importance. Fr Adrian Graffy reflects.