Stewards of God's Grace

 

Gospel

Matthew 25:14-30

14 Jesus told his disciples this parable: “A man going on a journey called in his servants and entrusted his possessions to them. 15 To one he gave five talents; to another, two; to a third, one—to each according to his ability. Then he went away. Immediately 16 the one who received five talents went and traded with them, and made another five. 17 Likewise, the one who received two made another two. 18 But the man who received one went off and dug a hole in the ground and buried his master’s money. 19 After a long time the master of those servants came back and settled accounts with them. 20 The one who had received five talents came forward bringing the additional five. He said, ‘Master, you gave me five talents. See, I have made five more.’ 21 His master said to him, ‘Well done, my good and faithful servant. Since you were faithful in small matters, I will give you great responsibilities. Come, share your master’s joy.’ 22 Then the one who had received two talents also came forward and said, ‘Master, you gave me two talents. See, I have made two more.’ 23 His master said to him, ‘Well done, my good and faithful servant. Since you were faithful in small matters, I will give you great responsibilities. Come, share your master’s joy.’ 24 Then the one who had received the one talent came forward and said, ‘Master, I knew you were a demanding person, harvesting where you did not plant and gathering where you did not scatter; 25 so out of fear I went off and buried your talent in the ground. Here it is back.’ 26 His master said to him in reply, ‘You wicked, lazy servant! So you knew that I harvest where I did not plant and gather where I did not scatter? 27 Should you not then have put my money in the bank so that I could have got it back with interest on my return? 28 Now then! Take the talent from him and give it to the one with ten. 29 For to everyone who has, more will be given and he will grow rich; but from the one who has not, even what he has will be taken away. 30 And throw this useless servant into the darkness outside, where there will be wailing and grinding of teeth.’”

Context and Setting

This parable is part of Jesus’ eschatological discourse, which includes teachings about the end times and the coming of the Kingdom of God. It is situated between the Parable of the Ten Virgins and the Parable of the Sheep and the Goats, all of which highlight the need for readiness and faithful stewardship in anticipation of the Lord’s return.

The Story

In the parable, a wealthy man goes on a journey and entrusts his property to his servants. He gives five talents to one servant, two to another, and one to the third, each according to their ability. The first two servants invest their talents and double the amount, while the third servant, out of fear, hides his talent in the ground.

Key Lessons

God has entrusted each of us with unique gifts, talents, and resources. We are called to use these wisely and productively for His glory and the benefit of others. This parable reminds us that we are stewards of what God has given us, and we should strive to make the most of these blessings.

We will be held accountable for how we use our gifts. The servants who invested their talents were commended for their faithfulness and diligence. This underscores the importance of being faithful in our responsibilities, regardless of the amount we have been given. Failing to use our gifts can lead to missed opportunities and negative consequences, both spiritually and practically. This teaches us the importance of taking responsibility for our actions and making the most of our opportunities.

Success in the Kingdom of God often requires diligence and hard work. The servants who doubled their talents did so through effort and initiative. This encourages us to be proactive and industrious in our endeavors, knowing that our efforts can yield significant spiritual and practical returns.

The term “talent” in the parable originally referred to a large sum of money, but it has come to symbolize any kind of gift or ability. The parable encourages believers to actively use their skills, time, and resources to serve God and others, rather than letting them go to waste.

God knows our capabilities and provides us with what we need to fulfill His purposes. We can trust that He equips us adequately for the tasks He sets before us. Ultimately, the parable points to the eternal rewards that come from faithful service. The commendation, “Well done, good and faithful servant,” reflects the joy and fulfillment that await those who diligently serve God and others with the resources they have been given.

Stewards of God's Grace

God has entrusted us with gifts so rare,

Talents and resources beyond compare.

As stewards of His bounty, we must strive,

To use them wisely, keep His love alive.

He knows our strengths, our every need,

Equips us well, in word and deed.

For His glory and others’ gain,

We work with joy, through sun and rain.

Success demands our diligent hand,

Proactive hearts, a firm, strong stand.

In every task, both great and small,

We answer His divine call.

Responsibility is ours to bear,

To seize each chance, with utmost care.

For inaction breeds a stagnant soul,

But effort leads to a greater whole.

Eternal rewards await the true,

For those who serve in all they do.

“Well done, good servant,” He will say,

As joy and peace crown our way.

Lord Jesus,

You have entrusted each of us with unique gifts, talents, and resources. As stewards of Your blessings, we seek to use them wisely and productively, for Your glory and the benefit of others. You know our capabilities and provide us with what we need to fulfill Your purposes. We trust that You equip us adequately for the tasks You set before us.

Grant us the diligence and hard work required for success. Help us to be proactive and industrious in our endeavors, knowing that our efforts can yield significant spiritual and practical returns. Guide us to take responsibility for our actions, making the most of our opportunities, aware that we will be held accountable for how we use our gifts. Protect us from inaction and complacency, so we do not miss opportunities or fall into spiritual stagnation.

Ultimately, we look to the eternal rewards that come from faithful service. May we hear Your commendation, “Well done, good and faithful servant,” and find joy and fulfillment in diligently serving You and others with the resources You have given us.

Amen.

Pericope:

VI: Ministry in Judea and Jerusalem

THE PARABLE OF THE TALENTS

Matthew 25:14-30

Gospel Acclamation

 I give you a new commandment: love one another as I have loved you.

Reflection Source:

Conversation with Copilot

Take What is Yours and Go

 "My friend, I am not cheating you. 

Did you not agree with me for the usual daily wage? 

Take what is yours and go."

(Matthew 20:13-14)

The day of the Lord is at hand (2 Thes 2:2). He has made the world firm, not to be moved; He governs the peoples with equity (Ps 96:10). Therefore, stand firm and hold fast to the traditions that you were taught (2 Thes 2:15). To this end He has also called you to possess the glory of your Lord Jesus Christ (2 Thes 2:15).   

Jesus said,  "What if I wish to give this last one the same as you? Or am I not free to do as I wish with my own money? Are you envious because I am generous?’ Thus, the last will be first, and the first will be last.” (Mt 20:14-16)

Today is the day to give what is fair and just to your hired laborers (Mt 20:4). You have agreed with them for their usual daily wage, sending them to work into your vineyard. (Mt 20:1-2) Always be faithful in give them their pay, beginning with the last and ending with the first (Mt 20:8). 

Let no one deceive you in any way (2 Thes 2:3). Know how you are loved by God, how you were chosen. The gospel of the Lord did not come to you in word alone, but also in power and in the Holy Spirit with much conviction. (1 Thes 1:4-5) Turn to God from idols to serve the living and true God (1 Thes 1:9)

Give thanks to the God always as you call to mind your works of faith and labor of love and endurance in hope of your Lord Jesus Christ, before your God and Father (1 Thes 1:2). May the Lord Jesus Christ Himself and God your Father, who has loved you and given you everlasting encouragement and good hope through His grace, encourage your hearts and strengthen them in every good deed and word (2 Thes 2:16-17).

God's love always brings glory that lifts you up to higher ground. Glory of making you victorious in all your circumstances and challenges in life (Ps 149:4). This is the glory of all those who are faithful to God (Ps 149:9).

Published:

August 23, 2024, 5:29 AM

August 23, 2023, 8:13 AM

Give Without Cost

"Without cost you have received; 

without cost you are to give."

(Matthew 10:8)

Lord Jesus, 

Your words are spirit and truth. Truly, I do not deserve to receive Your bountiful graces and blessings but still, out of Your love for me, you continue to give them all unconditionally. Be praised and glorified O Lord for You are good all the time!

You made me a servant who profits in the line of work that deals with service. The more service I do, the more prosperity and peace comes to me. 

Today, you have revealed to me that it is only fitting for me to also share what I have learned from you to others without cost. Please continue to be my guiding hand and freely give what I have received from You so that they too may profit and benefit as well. As they profit, I too will profit even more. 

In You, I am always at peace and living in the utmost comfort of Your love. Thank You so much for the continued outpouring of graces and blessings that makes us truly enjoy life to the full. 

May You continue to be with us each moment of our lives, giving praise and glory to the Father all our days. 

Amen.

Published:

July 11, 2024, 8:20 AM

July 13, 2023, 11:49 AM

Reconciliation and Settlement

"Leave your gift there at the altar, 

go first and be reconciled with your brother, 

and then come and offer your gift. 

Settle with your opponent quickly 

while on the way to court." 

(Matthew 5:24-25)

We should not just follow the law in a legalistic manner, but understand and live by the spirit of the law. Our actions should be guided by love, mercy, and justice, not just by the letter of the law. 

Reconciliation is important with our brothers and sisters. If we have a dispute or disagreement with someone, we should seek to resolve it as soon as possible. This is more important than religious rituals, indicating that our relationships with others are a vital part of our relationship with God. 

We should not harbor anger or resentment, but seek peace and reconciliation. We should acknowledge our wrongs, ask for forgiveness, and make amends. Even when we fall short, God is ready to forgive us if we repent. Our heart’s intentions and attitudes are just as important as our actions. 

Let us live a life of love, peace, and reconciliation, reflecting the Kingdom of God in our lives.

In the realm where law and spirit intertwine,

We tread not just on the letter, but the divine.

Guided by love, mercy, justice, our actions align,

Not by the law's cold print, but by a design so fine.

Reconciliation, a virtue we must embrace,

With our kin, our friends, in every place.

Disputes and disagreements, we must efface,

For in God's grand scheme, love takes the ace.

More than rituals, more than rites,

Our bond with others ignites,

A vital part of our spiritual flights,

In the realm of God, where love unites.

Anger, resentment, we must let go,

Seek peace, seek reconciliation, let forgiveness flow.

Acknowledge our wrongs, in humility we bow,

God's ready to forgive, this we know.

Our actions matter, but so does our heart,

Intentions and attitudes, they're all a part.

In the mirror of the soul, in every part,

Reflects the Kingdom of God, a divine art.

So let us live, in love and peace,

Where anger and resentment cease.

In reconciliation, let our efforts increase,

Reflecting the Kingdom of God, where joys never cease.

Dear Lord Jesus,

We come before You today, acknowledging that we are called not just to follow the law in a legalistic manner, but to understand and live by the spirit of the law. Guide our actions with Your love, mercy, and justice, and help us to see beyond the letter of the law.

We understand the importance of reconciliation with our brothers and sisters. If we have a dispute or disagreement with someone, grant us the wisdom and humility to seek resolution as soon as possible. Remind us that this is more important than religious rituals, and that our relationships with others are a vital part of our relationship with You.

Help us not to harbor anger or resentment, but to seek peace and reconciliation. Give us the courage to acknowledge our wrongs, to ask for forgiveness, and to make amends. Even when we fall short, we are grateful that You are ready to forgive us if we repent.

Teach us that our heart’s intentions and attitudes are just as important as our actions. Let us live a life of love, peace, and reconciliation, reflecting the Kingdom of God in our lives. 

In Your holy name, we pray. Amen.

Pericope:

II: The Proclamation of the Kingdom

TEACHING ABOUT THE LAW/TEACHING ABOUT ANGER

Matthew 5:17-20/21-26

Gospel | Matthew 5:20-26

Gospel Acclamation

I give you a new commandment: love one another as I have loved you. 

20 Jesus said to his disciples: “I tell you, unless your righteousness surpasses that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will not enter into the Kingdom of heaven. 21 “You have heard that it was said to your ancestors, You shall not kill; and whoever kills will be liable to judgment. 22 But I say to you, whoever is angry with his brother will be liable to judgment, and whoever says to his brother, ‘Raqa,’ will be answerable to the Sanhedrin, and whoever says, ‘You fool,’ will be liable to fiery Gehenna. 23 Therefore, if you bring your gift to the altar, and there recall that your brother has anything against you, 24 leave your gift there at the altar, go first and be reconciled with your brother, and then come and offer your gift. 25 Settle with your opponent quickly while on the way to court with him. Otherwise, your opponent will hand you over to the judge, and the judge will hand you over to the guard, and you will be thrown into prison. 26 Amen, I say to you, you will not be released until you have paid the last penny.” 

Background:

Matthew 5:20-26 is part of the Sermon on the Mount, which is one of the most well-known teachings of Jesus. This passage is the first of six “antitheses” where Jesus contrasts the demands of the Law with those of the Gospel.

In this passage, Jesus challenges the interpretation of the Law by the scribes and Pharisees. He emphasizes that righteousness should surpass that of the scribes and Pharisees to enter the Kingdom of heaven. According to Jesus, righteousness does not come from what we do for God in observing the law, but rather from what God does for us, accepting us as His children.

Jesus expands on the commandment “You shall not kill,” explaining that anger and insult are also liable to judgment. He emphasizes the importance of reconciliation with others before offering gifts at the altar. This teaching encourages us not only to reconcile with our fellow brothers and sisters but also to reconcile ourselves with God.

This passage captures one of the most basic themes of Lent: reconciliation. It’s a call to repentance for the wrongs we have done and a reminder of God’s mercy. It’s a profound teaching on the spirit of the law, going beyond the letter of the law, and focusing on the heart’s intentions. It’s about living a life of love, peace, and reconciliation, reflecting the Kingdom of God in our lives.

Learning Lessons:

Matthew 5:20-26 offers several important lessons for our lives:

Righteousness Beyond Legalism: Jesus teaches that our righteousness should surpass that of the scribes and Pharisees. This means that we should not just follow the law in a legalistic manner, but understand and live by the spirit of the law. Our actions should be guided by love, mercy, and justice, not just by the letter of the law.

Importance of Reconciliation: Jesus emphasizes the importance of reconciliation with our brothers and sisters. If we have a dispute or disagreement with someone, we should seek to resolve it as soon as possible. This is more important than religious rituals, indicating that our relationships with others are a vital part of our relationship with God.

Value of Peace: The passage teaches us to be peacemakers. We should not harbor anger or resentment, but seek peace and reconciliation. This reflects the peace of the Kingdom of God.

Repentance and Mercy: The passage is a call to repentance. We should acknowledge our wrongs, ask for forgiveness, and make amends. It also reminds us of God’s mercy. Even when we fall short, God is ready to forgive us if we repent.

Heart’s Intentions Matter: Jesus expands on the commandment “You shall not kill,” explaining that anger and insult are also liable to judgment. This teaches us that our heart’s intentions and attitudes are just as important as our actions.

These lessons remind us to live a life of love, peace, and reconciliation, reflecting the Kingdom of God in our lives. They challenge us to go beyond the letter of the law and to live by the spirit of the law, guided by love, mercy, and justice. They call us to be peacemakers, to seek reconciliation, to repent when we fall short, and to trust in God’s mercy. They remind us that our heart’s intentions and attitudes are important to God.

Published:

June 13, 2024, 7:33 AM

Render an Account

No creature is concealed 

from Him, but everything 

is naked and exposed 

to the eyes of Him 

to whom we must 

render an account. 

(Hebrews 4:13)

As the Lord's steward, you shall make a full and regular report and devote your time, talent, and treasure for the glory of God.

Lord Jesus, 

You have similarly been tested in every way, yet without sin. Thank You so much for opening the door for us to confidently approach Your throne of grace to receive mercy and to find grace for timely help.

Indeed, nothing is concealed from You, but everything is naked and exposed to Your eyes to whom we must render an account. 

Today, we humbly ask and pray that You continue the good works that You have begun in us most especially with regards to financial matters as Your stewards. Help us to be faithful in rendering an account of our stewardship at any given time without delay.

In You, we have received mercy and found grace for timely help. You have saved us from the pit of poverty and raised us up to a renewed life of peace and prosperity. You have given us and continue to give us more than enough financial resources not only to faithfully pay and settle our regular obligations but to invest Your resources for profitable gains.

Please accept our deepest and profound gratitude for totally changing our lives to conform with Your will that gives glory to our Father in heaven. All glory and honor are Yours now and forever!

Amen.

Posted: January 14, 2023, Saturday, 5:51 AM

Prudent Stewardship

He summoned him and said,

‘What is this I hear about you?

Prepare a full account 

of your stewardship, 

because you can no longer 

be my steward.’ 

(Luke 16:2)

This verse emphasizes the importance of being accountable for our actions. Just as the steward had to give an account of his management, we too are responsible for how we manage our resources, time, and responsibilities. It highlights the concept of stewardship, reminding us that we are caretakers of the resources and opportunities given to us. We must use them wisely and faithfully.

The steward's dismissal serves as a warning about the consequences of mismanagement. It teaches us that neglecting our duties and responsibilities can lead to serious repercussions.

The verse encourages self-reflection and evaluation of our actions. It prompts us to regularly assess how we are living our lives and whether we are fulfilling our responsibilities effectively. These lessons inspire us to be diligent, responsible, and reflective in our daily lives. 

In every choice, in every deed, 

Act with wisdom, plant the seed. 

Consider well the path you take, 

For every step, a future make.

With careful thought and steady hand, 

Build your life, a house that stands. 

In prudence, find the strength to see, 

The way to live, the way to be.

For in the planning, wisdom lies, 

A guiding light, a clear sunrise. 

So act with care, and do not haste, 

In every moment, make it chaste.

Let prudence be your guiding star, 

In every task, both near and far. 

For in each prudent act, you'll find, 

A life well-lived, a peace of mind.

Dear Lord Jesus,

We come before You with humble hearts, seeking Your wisdom and guidance. Teach us to act prudently in all our decisions and actions. Help us to plan carefully and to consider the consequences of our choices.

Grant us the discernment to recognize the right path and the courage to follow it, even when it is difficult. May we be good stewards of the resources and opportunities You have given us, using them wisely and faithfully.

Lord, remind us to seek Your counsel in every situation and to trust in Your perfect plan. Strengthen our resolve to live with integrity and purpose, always striving to honor You in all that we do.

In Your holy name, we pray.

Amen.

Pericope:

V: The Journey to Jerusalem: Luke's Travel Narrative

THE PARABLE OF THE DISHONEST STEWARD

Luke 16:1-8

Gospel Acclamation

Whoever keeps the word of Christ, the love of God is truly perfected in him. 

Gospel | Luke 16:1-8

1 Jesus said to his disciples, “A rich man had a steward who was reported to him for squandering his property. 2 He summoned him and said, ‘What is this I hear about you? Prepare a full account of your stewardship, because you can no longer be my steward.’ 3 The steward said to himself, ‘What shall I do, now that my master is taking the position of steward away from me? I am not strong enough to dig and I am ashamed to beg. 4 I know what I shall do so that, when I am removed from the stewardship, they may welcome me into their homes.’ 5 He called in his master’s debtors one by one. To the first he said, ‘How much do you owe my master?’ 6 He replied, ‘One hundred measures of olive oil.’ He said to him, ‘Here is your promissory note. Sit down and quickly write one for fifty.’ 7 Then to another he said, ‘And you, how much do you owe?’ He replied, ‘One hundred measures of wheat.’ He said to him, ‘Here is your promissory note; write one for eighty.’ 8 And the master commended that dishonest steward for acting prudently. “For the children of this world are more prudent in dealing with their own generation than the children of light." 

Reflection Source:

Conversation with Copilot

Act Prudently

 "And the master commended that dishonest steward for acting prudently. 

For the children of this world are more prudent in dealing 

with their own generation than are the children of light.”

LUKE 16:8

Prudent in the sense of being wise means suitable for bringing about a desired result under the circumstances. In the sense of being insightful means having or showing deep understanding and intelligent application of knowledge. In the sense of being cautious means having or showing good judgment and restraint especially in conduct or speech. (Merriam-Webster)/

I myself am convinced about you, my brothers and sisters, that you yourselves are full of goodness, filled with all knowledge, and able to admonish one another. But I have written to you rather boldly in some respects to remind you, because of the grace given me by God to be a minister of Christ Jesus to the Gentiles in performing the priestly service of the Gospel of God, so that the offering up of the Gentiles may be acceptable, sanctified by the Holy Spirit. (Rom 15:14-16)

Jesus said to his disciples, “A rich man had a steward who was reported to him for squandering his property. He summoned him and said, ‘What is this I hear about you? Prepare a full account of your stewardship, because you can no longer be my steward.’ The steward said to himself, ‘What shall I do, now that my master is taking the position of steward away from me? I am not strong enough to dig and I am ashamed to beg. I know what I shall do so that, when I am removed from the stewardship, they may welcome me into their homes.’ He called in his master’s debtors one by one. To the first he said, ‘How much do you owe my master?’ He replied, ‘One hundred measures of olive oil.’ He said to him, ‘Here is your promissory note. Sit down and quickly write one for fifty.’ Then to another he said, ‘And you, how much do you owe?’ He replied, ‘One hundred measures of wheat.’ He said to him, ‘Here is your promissory note; write one for eighty.’ And the master commended that dishonest steward for acting prudently. For the children of this world are more prudent in dealing with their own generation than are the children of light.” (Lk 16:1-8)

The Lord has made His salvation known; in the sight of the nations He has revealed his justice. He has remembered His kindness and His faithfulness toward the house of Israel. All the ends of the earth have seen the salvation by our God. (Ps 98:2-3)

In Christ Jesus, then, I have reason to boast in what pertains to God. For I will not dare to speak of anything except what Christ has accomplished through me to lead the Gentiles to obedience by word and deed, by the power of signs and wonders, by the power of the Spirit of God, so that from Jerusalem all the way around to Illyricum I have finished preaching the Gospel of Christ. Thus I aspire to proclaim the Gospel not where Christ has already been named, so that I do not build on another’s foundation, but as it is written: Those who have never been told of him shall see, and those who have never heard of him shall understand. (Rom 15:17-21)

Sing to the Lord a new song, for he has done wondrous deeds; his right hand has won victory for him, his holy arm. Sing joyfully to the Lord, all you lands; break into song; sing praise. (Ps 98:1,4)

Lord Jesus, You are my one and only Master in whom I am fully accountable. Thank You so much for entrusting me with Your vast wealth and riches as Your veryu own steward. I own nothing to anyone except You. 

I do confess Lord that I have sinned. I have not been truly prudent in all works at hand. Please forgive me and guide me with Your hand to do what is right and proper in all of the works and undertakings that must be accomplished. I surrender fully to the works of Your hands. 

Indeed Lord, You do not commend dishonesty but one's admission of guilt that led to acting prudently. Help me dear Lord to always show careful and good judgment over all our financial dealings knowing that eventually. I shall prepare a full account of the stewardship You have entrusted to me. As always, please accept my deep and profound gratitude for always providing for our needs and making me mindful to be faithful in paying our debts and obligations. 

All glory and honor are Yours now and forever. Amen.

Pericope:

V: The Journey to Jerusalem: Luke's Travel Narrative

THE PARABLE OF THE DISHONEST STEWARD

Luke 16:1-8

Published:

November 10, 2023, 7:31 AM