It is 06th November 2020. The readings are from Philippians 3:17-4:1; and the Gospel from Luke 16:1-8.
To be a model alone is not enough we need to be aware of mockery around.
We may be contented with living our lives as examples without noticing the mockery and murdering the supreme model of sacrifice of the Lord on the Cross.
We do not need to hate anyone just because they are mocking and murdering the maiden sacrifice for the salvation of the humanity.
Our discerning need not desecrate or dissipate anyone or the freedom of the people. With the power of freewill and freedom, people could undermine the values of the Gospel, yet we need to value them and validate them.
For St. Paul, people are the glory and crown not what they do, and they believe. Divine joy comes by living our lives for the noble and human cause.
Our relationships and respects we show here to one another counts and matters for our belief in belonging to a one human family in Heaven. It is our constant effort to raise above our narcissistic and self-centered attitudes and behaviors. We cannot change anyone by our words and counsel we can surely influence the other in a way we live in conviction and truth.
When we look higher, we overlook the flyers of lies and begin noticing the goodness in others. Honesty comes by being truthful to ourselves. The way we use or acquire the material possessions has the implications in our relationships with the owner of the gifts. By being responsible we over the temptations to be dishonest and people-pleasers. God loves our cleverness not the crookery and manipulations. Jesus encourages us to grow in prudence and astuteness not in dishonesty. Irresponsibility accompanies dishonesty. Foresightedness and being shrewd help us to be responsible, honest, and working smart. May the Lord help us to recognize our strength that never weaken the other. Have a lovely day. God bless you.