1. Lectio
Read the passage slowly and attentively, paying close attention to each word and detail.
Passage: “And he said also to his disciples: There was a certain rich man who had a steward: and the same was accused unto him, that he had wasted his goods. And he called him and said to him: How is it that I hear this of thee? Give an account of thy stewardship: for now thou canst be steward no longer. And the steward said within himself: What shall I do, because my lord taketh away from me the stewardship? To dig I am not able; to beg I am ashamed. I know what I will do, that when I shall be removed from the stewardship, they may receive me into their houses. Therefore, calling together every one of his lord’s debtors, he said to the first: How much dost thou owe my lord? But he said: An hundred barrels of oil. And he said to him: Take thy bill and sit down quickly and write fifty. Then he said to another: And how much dost thou owe? Who said: An hundred quarters of wheat. He said to him: Take thy bill and write eighty. And the lord commended the unjust steward, forasmuch as he had done wisely: for the children of this world are wiser in their generation than the children of light. And I say to you: Make unto you friends of the mammon of iniquity: that when you shall fail, they may receive you into everlasting dwellings.” (Saint Luke 16:1-9)
2. Meditatio
Reflect on the passage, considering what it says about Christ and how it speaks to your own spiritual life.
- The steward’s predicament: Reflect on the steward’s situation of facing the loss of his position and the consequences of his mismanagement. Consider the feelings of fear, shame, and desperation he must have experienced.
- The steward’s plan: Reflect on the steward’s decision to secure his future by reducing the debts of his master’s debtors. Consider the shrewdness and pragmatism he exhibited in a difficult situation.
- The master’s commendation: Reflect on the master’s commendation of the steward’s shrewdness despite his unjust behaviour. Consider what Jesus is teaching about wisdom, resourcefulness, and the use of worldly goods.
- Children of this world vs. children of light: Reflect on the distinction Jesus makes between the children of this world and the children of light. Consider how this applies to your own life and spiritual journey.
3. Oratio
Respond to the passage with prayer, seeking to connect with God through the text.
Lord Jesus, as I reflect on Thy words, I am reminded of the importance of wisdom and resourcefulness in my life. Help me to understand and apply Thy teachings, using the resources Thou hast entrusted to me in ways that glorify Thee and further Thy kingdom. Grant me the grace to be a faithful steward, mindful of the eternal consequences of my actions. May I always seek to be a child of light, living according to Thy Father’s Will and preparing for the everlasting dwellings Thou hast promised. Amen.
4. Contemplatio
Spend some time in silent contemplation, resting in God’s presence and allowing the truths of the passage to sink deeply into your heart.
Imagine yourself as the steward, facing the consequences of your actions and making a plan to secure your future. Feel the urgency and resolve to act wisely. Contemplate the ways in which you can be a faithful steward of the resources God has given you, using them to build relationships and further His kingdom. Rest in the assurance of God’s grace, which guides and empowers you to live as a child of light.
5. Actio
Consider how you can apply the insights gained from this passage to your daily life.
- Evaluate your stewardship: Take stock of how you are managing the resources God has entrusted to you. Identify areas where you can be more faithful and responsible.
- Use resources wisely: Look for opportunities to use your material resources to help others and further God’s kingdom. Consider acts of charity, generosity, and support for those in need.
- Seek wisdom: Pray for and cultivate wisdom in your decisions, especially regarding financial and material matters. Reflect on how your choices impact your spiritual journey.
- Build relationships: Use your resources to build and strengthen relationships within your community, fostering a spirit of love, support, and mutual care.
- Prepare for eternity: Keep your focus on the eternal perspective, making decisions that align with God’s will and prepare you for the everlasting dwellings He has promised.
