Reflection on Today's Readings, Saturday, 31st Week in Ordinary Time Year II, November 7th, 2020
Texts: Phil. 4:10-19; Ps. 112:1-2.5-6.8-9; Luke 16:9-15
Many a time we measure the value of life based on material possessions. The poor think they are of little worth because they have little possessions while the rich feel they are of higher worth because they have much possessions. However, the value of life is independent of material possessions but dependent on our relationship with God and man. The worth of human life is the image and likeness of God he possesses. Our relationship with God and with one another makes this image and likeness shine out brightly while attachment to worldly things debases it.
Human life is debased when its value is placed on material possessions. Such a judgement of human life leads to materialism and consumerism. Yesterday St. Paul warned us against it when he said, "Their end is destruction, their god is the belly, and they glory in their shame, with minds set on earthly things."
We are to learn today the right attitude towards material things. The right attitude is that of indifference. This is clear in the life of St. Paul. He says, "I have learnt, in whatever state I am, to be content. I know how to be abased, and I know how to abound; in any circumstances I have learnt the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and want." St. Paul was indifferent to material things because for him life is independent of material things; he did not judge the value of life based on material possessions but based on relationship with Jesus Christ. Hence, he says, "I can do all things in him who strengthens me." That is the life of those who live for heaven.
Material things are to be used to gain that which endures, the eternal life. Jesus Christ hits on this when he says, "Make friends for yourselves by means of unrighteous Mammon, so that when it fails they may receive you into the eternal habitations." Material things are used rightly when they are used to support the spreading of the gospel as the Philippians did to St. Paul. Beside the supporting of the gospel, we are to use material things to advance the course of justice and whatever is excellent, honourable and praise worthy, for they win us God's good will. Hence, today's psalm says, "It goes well for the man who deals generously and lends, who conducts his affairs with justice. He will never be moved; forever shall the just be remembered. With stead fast heart he will not fear. Open-handed, he gives to the poor; his justice stands firm forever. His might shall be exalted in glory."
When we use material things rightly, we will be faithful in both little and much. When we are faithful with material things, God will grant us things of spiritual value, such as forgiveness, purification, strength and wisdom.
Lord our God, enlighten our minds to know that the value of life is independent of material possessions and give us the wisdom to use them rightly so as to win eternal life. Amen.
Rev. Fr. Andrew Olowomuke
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