To whom much was given ...

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The Lord said, “Who then is the faithful and wise manager, whom his master will set over his household, to give them their portion of food at the proper time? Blessed is that servant whom his master will find so doing when he comes. ... Everyone to whom much was given, of him much will be required, and from him to whom they entrusted much, they will demand the more.

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These verses communicate the idea that we are but managers, and not owners, of the earth and everything that is in it. In these sentences we understand that we have a responsibility to care for each other - especially the poor. We also see that there is a blessing connected to this sort of care and management. Yet the temptation is to act as permanent owners instead of temporary managers. It is so easy to become attached to the things and positions of this age.

In contrast Jesus paints a different picture of one who is not attached to this world but acts responsibly with what they have been entrusted with. It causes me to think of Zacchaeus, a chief tax collector, who had a radical transformation when Jesus had a meal with him. He said: “Behold, Lord, the half of my goods I give to the poor. And if I have defrauded anyone of anything, I restore it fourfold.” And that day Zacchaeus released his ownership of his property.

I too cry out with Zacchaeus Lord. Help me to be a manager instead of an owner.

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