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GOSPEL

From the Gospel according to Luke
Lk 16:1-8

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 the children of light.”

Message from the Lord.

Winning Souls for God

This Gospel passage can be somewhat perplexing at first glance. It might seem like someone who acts improperly is being commended. However, Jesus is actually encouraging us to utilize the gifts given by God to attract the love and devotion of many people. He’s urging us to make the most of what God has provided so that we can help reduce or eliminate any spiritual debts our loved ones may have to God. God doesn’t desire that anyone carries burdens of debt to Him, and He’s willing to give generously, even offering His own Son, to bring about reconciliation and peace. So, what is our role in this?

The Devil is a cunning tempter who lures and deceives by disguising his ways as appealing. In response, we need to be clever and strategic in our efforts to lead our loved ones closer to God. The Devil doesn’t force anyone; he allures and seduces. Therefore, we must exert a stronger, more attractive influence on our loved ones to guide them towards God, for God’s power is always superior.

Relating this to married life:

Helen: Andrés, I sent you a link about Father Pio. Have you checked it out?
Andrew: No, Marta, I haven’t had a chance to see it.
Helen: It seems like you find time to watch all sorts of videos, but when I send you something profound, it doesn’t seem to pique your interest.
Andrew: Marta, I’m getting tired of the dull videos you send me. I’m not sure why I feel obligated to watch them…
In prayer, the Lord says: Marta, Marta… I have endowed you with all your unique qualities as a woman so that you can captivate your husband’s heart for Me. I understand your nature. Embrace your femininity, your sweetness, and your charm. Stay connected to Me through your prayers and sacraments, and continue offering sacrifices on his behalf. In due time, I will work in his heart. My daughter, place your trust in Me. I need you. I need your words, your actions. When your husband sees you, it should be Me that he sees in reality. Love him as I love you, and employ your natural allure to bring his soul closer to Me. This is the greatest gift you can offer him if you love him, and it’s the greatest gift you can offer Me if you love Me.
(After waiting a few days not to overwhelm Andrew)
Helen: Darling, would you come over here with me? I’m feeling a bit chilly.
Andrew: Of course, I’ll warm you up.
Helen: I’m aware there’s a series you enjoy. Would it be alright if I watch a couple of episodes with you, and afterward, we can have a nice chat?
Andrew: Well, alright… My series? Sure, I appreciate you sharing this with me.
(After a couple of episodes)
Helen: I enjoyed watching your series with you. Would you be open to me sharing something with you as well? I need you.
Andrew: Yes, of course.
Helen: Look, I’d like us to experience something meaningful together, something that goes beyond daily chores and household matters. I want to know you better, and I’d like you to know me…
(After a while of conversing while Helen gently caresses Andrew’ chest, knowing his preferences…)
Helen: What I’m feeling is akin to that Gospel message that says…
(And so, Helen, gently and artfully, led Andrew into a conversation about matters of God. There was no imposition, just a focus on his comfort and the enjoyment of a pleasant time. Finally, Helen was skilfully making use of the gifts that God had given her).

Mother,

I admire your subtlety, your simplicity. You’ve masterfully guided me towards God and won my heart. I hold you dear, Mother. How can I ever repay you? Praise be to the Lord, who entrusted me to His Most Holy Mother to welcome me in His name. Amen.