Thirty-First Week in Ordinary Time

Saint Paul urged the Philippians to consider other people, not just their own interests. Jesus had spoken more dramatically. In select company at the home of a leading Pharisee, Jesus advised inviting the poor to banquets. Compared with the love that God deserves, even love for family might seem like hatred. Discipleship has costs but far more value than possessions. In a parable, a dishonest steward about to get fired by the property owner hoped that quickly reducing amounts that debtors owed would lead to later favors in return. Such tactics do not work with God. Jesus seeks the lost but also wants people to come to Him for help freely given. How often do we give thanks that God treasures even small change for the better in us?