September 22 // 25th Sunday in Ordinary Time

Reading I: Amos 8: 4-7
Responsorial Psalm 113: 1-2, 4-6, 7-8
Reading II: 1 Timothy 2: 1-8
Gospel: Luke 16:1-13 or 10-13

The gospel today, as in every Sunday of the Church year, challenges us especially if we are blessed with the good things of this earth, education, beautiful home, money in the bank, fabulous vacations, the applause of appreciative audiences of fans applauding, etc. It’s then that we have to confront the wisdom of the world with the foolishness of God and the folly of the Beatitudes—Blessed are the poor in spirit and those persecuted for Christ, the meek and the poor who mourn, the merciful and the makers of peace, the pure in heart and those who thirst for righteousness. (Mt. 5:3-12)

I invite you to look into your heart to discover what rules it—money, fame, privilege, power or whatever else there might be. Ask yourself where God stands on this list? Do you look at what roots your life—is it ‘things’ or is it the God who dwells within that grounds you in faith for a life to be lived in accord with the PLAN of God?

It seems that we are living in a time where people are aware of the ‘stuff’ they have accumulated over the years which clutters their living space. They are trying to rid themselves of all that distracts them from living life without the burden of things they no longer use or even want in favor of donating them to any of a variety of charities or people in need. We’ve heard it said that ‘one person’s junk becomes another’s treasure.’ If you haven’t used it or worn it in the past year, donate it or do something with it to enhance someone else’s life. Now look into your heart and discover what clutters it and what ‘stuff’ needs to be let go of so that you can find the peace of Christ.

Much of today’s gospel story is familiar even in our modern times. There are complex social relationships and unjust economic structures with twists and turns. What is the Good News in this parable? Perhaps it is troubling and unexpected but it points a path as we make our way in this worrisome world. There is still hope for tomorrow. Use whatever you have and redirect your intentions, shift your focus and try to raise others up who may be left out and behind.

Sr. Barbara Baker, MHSH
Pastoral Associate, RCIA Coordinator