25th Sunday in Ordinary Time - Who do you we serve?

Times have certainly not changed since the days of Jesus. People still cling to wealth as if it is their only god. When it comes to money and power, we are always clever in digging ourselves out of the latest ditch. Luke tells us of the dishonest steward who becomes quite creative in making good on squandering his master's property.

The last few weeks the gospel writers talk a great deal about discipleship. What does it take to be a follower of Jesus? Today's Gospel sets the stakes a bit higher. Jesus wants to know, who do we serve God or Mammon?

I remember as a child hearing this gospel and was not sure what or who mammon was. So here it is, Wikipedia says mammon is riches regarded as an object of worship and greedy pursuit; wealth as an evil. So there you have it, plain and simple.

Obtaining materialistic things are not a problem. Wealth and power become evil when we allow the pursuit and or possession of money to control our lives. Our pre-occupation with money and power often takes control of our minds and hearts that we have no care or regard for those less fortunate.

God has given each and every one of us different gifts and talents. Some are certainly more fortunate than others. Some have greater opportunities than others. To paraphrase Jesus, " those whom much is given, much is expected."

We all must share the responsibility of taking care of our lesser sisters and brothers. Today's Old Testament reading warns us never to advance ourselves at the expense of others.

I hear so many stories of successful and wealthy individuals who are committed to helping others. That's wonderful. Not all of us are rich and wealthy. Jesus was not talking to a select group. He is talking to you and me.

It's easy to reason, "the rich have a lot of money, they can afford to give to charity." The responsibility belongs to each of us. Mother Teresa once said, "If you can not feed a 100 people, then just feed one."

As we continue our gospel meditation today, let's think about the mammon in our lives. Let's think about the ways we can become clever and do great things for God and our less fortunate brothers and sisters.