the Proper Use of Wealth

Every month, Pope Leo offers an intention for our prayer.  This month it is:  For the Proper Use of Wealth: “Let us pray for the proper use of wealth, that not succumbing to the temptation of selfishness, it may always be put at the service of the common good and solidarity with those who have less.” 

Today's Bible readings remind us that one day each of us will give an account for the gifts God has entrusted to us, including the gift of time itself. That truth invites us to examine whether we are making faithful use of all that He has placed in our care. As disciples of Jesus, we live differently from the world around us—not seeking only our own comfort or immediate gratification, but striving to advance the Kingdom of God through our love and service to others. And what a beautiful example of this commitment is our new mission at 1140 Lake Gulch Road! This new beginning offers us a wonderful opportunity to share our gifts, unite our efforts, and bring the love of Christ to even more people in our community.

As good Christian stewards, we immediately recognize ourselves in today’s Gospel. Everything we possess ultimately belongs to God. He has entrusted these gifts to us so they may bear fruit for His glory. The tragedy in the parable is not that the last servant lacked ability. It is that he failed to recognize the privilege he had been given. His master invited him to share in his work, but fear kept him from responding. God extends that same invitation to us. He entrusts each of us with unique gifts and invites us to use them for His glory and for the good of others.  If you have not yet made your annual stewardship commitment, please do so.  Cards are still available in the pews or on-line at our website or by using the QR code from the poster at the front door of the church.

When we generously place our time, abilities, and resources at the service of God and others, we discover that stewardship is not simply an obligation. It is a privilege and a joy.  May we live each day so that, when our work is finished, we too may hear those joyful words: "Well done, my good and faithful servant... Come, share your master's joy."

Fr. Mark Zacker

Pastor