Be Astute for Heaven: A Reflection on the 25th Sunday in Ordinary Time

Opening Prayer

Come, Holy Spirit, Spirit of wisdom and counsel.
Open our hearts to understand the words of Jesus.
Teach us to be wise not for this world alone,
but wise for the Kingdom of Heaven. Amen.

Reflection: Luke 16:1–13

This Sunday’s Gospel is one of Jesus’ most unusual parables—the story of the dishonest steward. At first glance, it seems strange that Jesus would hold up a dishonest man as an example. But Jesus is not praising dishonesty. He is pointing to the man’s shrewdness, creativity, and ability to use resources with foresight.

The steward, knowing he was about to lose his job, acted decisively. He thought ahead. He used what he still had to secure a future welcome. And Jesus says to us: if the children of this world are so astute in securing their future here on earth, how much more should the children of light use wisdom to prepare for eternity?

Here is where the puzzling line comes in: “Use money, tainted as it is, to win you friends, and thus make sure that when it fails you, they will welcome you into the tents of eternity.”
Jesus is reminding us that earthly wealth will not last. One day it will fail. But if we use our resources generously—for mercy, charity, and building up the Kingdom—then what seemed temporary gains eternal value. The “friends” we make are those who benefit from our generosity, and ultimately God Himself, who receives our acts of love as treasures stored in heaven.

The real challenge is this: Do we use as much energy and creativity for God’s Kingdom as people of the world use for business, politics, or personal gain? We are called to be just as astute—but in holy ways. To think outside the box in how we share the Gospel. To be resourceful in showing mercy. To be clever in finding ways to build up our parish, our community, and our families in faith.

Application for Today

This Gospel is a call to generosity with wisdom.

• Can I look at my money, time, and talents not only as my possessions, but as resources to be invested for eternal purposes?
• Can I find one new way this week to “think outside the box” for God—whether by supporting someone in need, volunteering my skills, or contributing to my parish or a ministry?
• Can I use the same determination that the world uses for profit, but instead for mercy, compassion, and evangelization?

Jesus tells us plainly: “You cannot serve both God and mammon.” The choice is before us: to serve wealth that fades, or to serve God whose Kingdom endures.

Call to Action

This week, make a concrete act of generosity.

• Buy a meal for someone in need.
• Give time to someone who is lonely.
• Support your parish’s mission or a project of mercy.
• Use your gifts, not just your wallet, to build up the Kingdom.

Let your generosity today be the treasure that prepares you for the “tents of eternity.”

Closing Prayer

Lord Jesus, You have given us everything.
Teach us to use what we have wisely and generously.
Help us to be astute—not in selfishness, but in love.
May we build Your Kingdom here and be welcomed one day into Your eternal dwelling.
Amen.