Day 30 – Identity and Mandates of A Steward
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The Catechism continues to state that "Justice towards men disposes one to respect the rights of each and to establish in human relationships the harmony that promotes equity with regard to persons and to the common good." (CCC 1807) The focus here is on the common good versus individual interests; respecting the rights of others rather than focusing only on our own rights. And the result is the establishment in human relationships the HARMONY that promotes EQUITY and the COMMON GOOD. It is a paradigm shift to say the least. The inability of our society to maintain harmony is due to the lack of this noble insight. The result is the breakdown of human relationships and rapport that are paramount in sustaining the "human ecosystem" for continuous growth and development. And this is happening all over the world!
Ironically, as we strive for economic development, our society is now more torn, polarized and divided as it has ever been. Accusations, divisions, wars, revenges and violence have become the new norm of the current very tragic human condition. And we have become desensitized to this trend. Sadly, we are all contributing directly and indirectly to this self-destructing pandemic!
This equity leads to rapport and solidarity among human beings. If we do not share with others what is rightfully theirs, to give their due to our neighbours, we are actually robbing them of their properties. At the end, when Jesus comes again, we will need to prepare a full account of our stewardship (Luke 16:2).
The Catechism tells us that "The just man, often mentioned in the Sacred Scriptures, is distinguished by habitual right thinking and the uprightness of his conduct toward his neighbor."
At the end of the day, what really matters most is human relationship. It is the UNITY and COMMUNION that our Lord calls us to aim for even here on earth.
Let us not focus on our differences but our shared humanity and universal virtues. Let us reflect on our true identity as stewards and do away with the owner mentality. Let us be prepared to give a full account of our stewardship before Christ.
"If you are not trustworthy with what belongs to another, who will give you what is yours?"
REFLECTION
In what ways are you depriving others of what are due to them?
Are you engaged directly and indirectly in activities that have brought about divisions and conflicts among people?
TODAY'S PRAYER
I ask this in the name of Jesus. Amen!
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.
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Our parish priest told us a story that a customer was fined for wasting food in a restaurant and he was admonished by the manager that though money was his, the resources are for everyone of us.
If we bear in mind that we are only stewards of God’s gifts, we would be more ready to share them, be it money, time and talents… Oh Lord, please forgive me for having been so mean and greedy all the time. Let the Holy Spirit guide me in getting rid of this thought as an owner and be more generous, for the common good and the harmony of the society.
There are times that I am engaged and indirectly in activities that have bought about divisions and conflict among people without realizing it. Jesus, help me to be kind and thoughtful to other’s needs.