Today’s scripture: Luke 16:1-9 (NRSV) (The Message) (KJV) What might God be saying to me?
My thoughts (Sue Robinson):
What an interesting parable! If I were telling this story, I would have made it a teachable moment by saying “This steward was caught in his deception and severely punished. He was thrown out of his master’s house and never heard from again.” Yes, that’s the way I would end the story.
But the real story is that the master commended the steward for his shrewd ways. Even though it cost him money, he sees the cleverness in how this steward made an escape route for himself. The steward gave huge, unauthorized discounts to the master’s debtors so that he would ingratiate himself to them. When his eviction from the master’s house became a reality, the steward knew that the debtors would be obligated to him and make a place for him in their homes.
Even the master acknowledges the genius of the steward’s plan. It’s like he is saying, “Well played, steward. Well played.”
So where is the Christian moral to this story? Where is the ending where the bad people suffer? Isn’t that the way life works if you are a Christian? The bad pay and the good are rewarded?
Well, not really. Sometimes it seems as though if you are ruthless and conniving, you can have a better lot in this world. The good guy doesn’t always finish first in real life.
I think Jesus was trying to show us that sometimes evil intentions come out ahead. That’s just life in this fallen world. Sometimes others will look at those with unjust gain and see a successful person. But the true accounting is left to God. How we use our gifts and talents are up to us.
Thought for the day: Lord, let me have an honest accounting of the riches you have given me. Let me always be mindful of being trustworthy in all I do.
We encourage you to include a time of prayer with this reading. If you need a place to get started, consider the suggestions on the How to Pray page.