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Reflection for Sunday 09/23/07

READINGS
First Reading: Amos 8:4-7
Second Reading: 1 Timothy 2:1-8
Gospel: Luke 16:1-13

REFLECTION:
When we read Jesus’ words: “You cannot serve both God and mammon” our reaction is, “Of course, I serve God.” As Christians we are committed to placing God first in our lives. But we are living in a very materialistic society and sometimes it may be difficult to keep that commitment. We certainly want to provide financial security for our family. Gut how much is enough? We want to have some luxuries but when is our attachment to our possessions excessive? Serving God requires that we serve each other. What are we willing to sacrifice for those who are needy? How much time? How much money? Are we honest and trustworthy as we use our material goods and interact with people? Throughout our lives we wrestle with questions like these. To answer them we need to reflect on what is most important in our life and what our actions reveal about our priorities. We also need to consider how to make the best use of our possessions and resources in serving God and each other. While we cannot serve both God and money, perhaps wise use of our material goods can lead us to serve God in generous, loving ways.

1. Can cheating and deception ever be justified?
2. If someone treats you unfairly, do you have the right to do the same to them?

PRAYER:
Help me, Lord, to let go of the things that keep me from serving you. Teach me to share your gifts lovingly and generously. Amen.

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