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The person who is trustworthy in very small matters is also trustworthy in great ones. (Luke 16:10).
If we read these words in the context of today’s whole Gospel passage, we can see that Jesus considers money to be a “very small matter.” We may find that difficult to swallow. What about those of us who struggle every day to make ends meet? Does this mean that Jesus is telling us to stop working on our financial situation? That may be okay for someone like St. Francis of Assisi, but those of us who have to earn a living need to take a more aggressive approach!
Actually, Jesus does want to speak these words to everyone. He isn’t suggesting that we all take a vow of poverty, but he does want us to take a close look at our perspective on money. He wants us to see that in itself, money is neither “the root of all evils” nor a trivial matter to be ignored. Rather, Jesus is telling us that money is simply secondary when compared to our essential purpose, which is to know God through his Son Jesus, and to start living the life of heaven right now.
In a practical sense, this means that money does fit into the bigger picture of Christian living. As with anything else that God gives us, money is something we can use as a means to a greater end. By being careful in our spending and saving habits, we can use money as a tool to glorify the Lord. We are more free to donate to organizations that build his kingdom. At the same time, by guarding against the temptation to value money too much, we don’t let it become a snare that can draw us away from Jesus.
If you’re currently facing financial hardship, know that Jesus is with you and wants to help guide you and ease your anxieties. Think of the many ways he has cared for you in the past. Picture him on the cross, and recall his unending love for you. Know that he will never forsake you. Let his peace fill your heart, and don’t worry about tomorrow—he has it under control!
“Lord, help me to manage my finances wisely. I welcome you into this area of my life. Set me free from anxiety about my future, and make me a cheerful giver to those in need.”
Romans 16:3-9,16,22-27; Psalm 145:2-5,10-11
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