Twenty-fifth Sunday In Ordinary time

On this 25th Sunday, our Gospel speaks about a steward who was wasteful with his master’s property, in other words, a dishonest steward. When the master found out, the steward was to be dismissed. But before that could happen, he quickly acted to secure his future, even at the expense of his master.
What Jesus said next is rather astonishing, and perhaps even confusing. Jesus said:
“The master commended the dishonest manager because he had acted shrewdly.”
To act shrewdly or astutely is to have the ability to accurately assess a situation or person and to turn it to one’s advantage.
So why did Jesus highlight this? He was not praising dishonesty but pointing out how the world often admires those who use cleverness, even in dishonest ways to get ahead. Society may applaud those who lie, cheat, or manipulate situations for personal gain. But Jesus goes deeper, reminding us that true integrity begins with small things.
Honesty isn’t something we practice only when people are watching. We choose honesty because it’s the right thing to do, because we want to live justly and be accountable, even when we falter.
The first reading reminds us of God’s words to His people:
“Surely I will never forget any of their deeds.”
But God is not watching us like a judge waiting to catch our mistakes. Rather, He wants us to trust in His love and goodness. If we make honesty our best policy, it should be because we believe in His love and in His desire for us to do what is right, just, and loving.
So let us keep our eyes on the Lord, as we speak with honesty, think with sincerity, and act with integrity.
Reflection:
Can we say that we are honest people right now? Why or why not? And what do we need to grow in honesty?

Fr. Aegidius Warsito