Greetings on this the Saturday of the Thirty-first Week in Ordinary Time
Readings: PHIL 4:10-19; PS 112:1B-2, 5-6, 8A AND 9; LK 16:9-15
Notes: In today’s gospel portion Jesus’ advice may seem a bit unusual.
“make friends for yourselves with dishonest wealth”
But as always it is an invitation to think about our relationships with one another.
- Trust
- Honesty
- Loving
- Devoted
First reading
Brothers and sisters: I rejoice greatly in the Lord that now at last you revived your concern for me.
I am very well supplied because of what I received from you through Epaphroditus, “a fragrant aroma,” an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God.
There is a double meaning here (person and gift).
- Epaphroditus is a reference to a person who delivered the aid, described as lovely or handsome.
- Epaphroditus is a reference to the gift, lovely, “a fragrant aroma,” an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God.
For Paul, there is no separation between the person and the gift, it is one.
The aid is useful but the personal connection of the gift makes it an acceptable and pleasing sacrifice.
Responsorial Psalm
Blessed the man who fears the Lord.
Well for the man who is gracious and lends, who conducts his affairs with justice; He shall never be moved; the just one shall be in everlasting remembrance.
Alleluia Verse
Jesus Christ became poor although he was rich, So that by his poverty you might become rich.
Gospel Portion
Jesus said to his disciples: “I tell you, make friends for yourselves with dishonest wealth.
God knows your hearts, you will be welcomed into eternal dwellings, if you strive to make use of your resources for the benefit of others:
- Trustworthily
- Honestly
- Lovingly
- Devotedly
Peace be with you,
Deacon Gerry
Deacon Gerry Palermo 