“You know better!” How often does a child or young adult hear that simple three-word declarative sentence? Perhaps when a particular path or behavior they have chosen turns out to be ‘not so good.’ When Mom or Dad or a teacher or other caregiver speaks with them, it is not a punishment or attempt to chastise: the young one may be embarrassed or ashamed or (to use an excellent biblical word) chastened. No sharp rebuke, but a reminder: you are growing and learning and “forming a good conscience.” So, think about what happened and what other choices you might have made.

In the parable of the mean steward, which Jesus tells in Luke’s Gospel today, we see not only the master’s disappointment but swift and severe punishment. While the master was away, the steward did ………! You can predict the outcome! Realizing the master is delayed, the steward mistreats his underlings and then overindulges in food, especially drink. (Good behavior by the steward would have triggered what an old friend calls “the curse of the competent”: if you perform tasks given to you with care and responsibility, what do you get? More jobs, more tasks to accomplish!)

The steward, who knew his master’s will, acted badly and was quickly knocked down to “a place with the unfaithful.” Now consider our life as good Christians: not only do we know better, we know THE BEST! After all, our guide is Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior! We have his life, words and deeds, miracles, and very Body and Blood to light up our Way of the Cross. The path is clear; the goal shines brilliantly ahead and above all else. And we have Saint Peter Julian directing our gaze and focusing our regard on the Most Holy Eucharist.

How is your progress on the way to making this Eucharistic kingdom come?

Let Us Pray:

Dear God, you are the source of all goodness, love, and mercy. With the Eucharist to lift us up, may we strive mightily every day to be good stewards of your wonderful gifts. Amen.