Jesus told his disciples: “There was a rich man whose manager was accused of wasting his possessions. So he called him in and asked him, ‘What is this I hear about you? Give an account of your management, because you cannot be manager any longer.’
Luke 16:1-2
The beginning of this parable leads us in several directions – our concern for and engagement with wealth, and the possibility of losing it. We all need to be gainfully employed, not only to provide for our families but because it is our nature to feel useful and needed. No matter what we are doing, most people want to be productive.
This story introduces us to a man who is about to lose his job, whether by false accusation or due to his own mismanagement. It certainly gives us pause to think of ourselves in such a situation. The loss of income is a primary concern, but the accompanying emotions of being unemployed or underemployed can be just as damaging.
As the rest of this parable unfolds, we will learn more about our relationship with wealth and with others. Are we more concerned with our income and status than caring for others? Does our money or our possessions cause us to neglect our connection to God? Jesus has more to teach us about this – we must be careful to love God and people more than things.
Loving Lord, we are blessed by Your gifts that enable us to support ourselves and our families. Help us to value Your creation above earthly things, sharing our blessings with those who are in need. Amen.