RBWords

     The parable of the Dishonest Steward elicits howls of protest from some of my Beloved Congregation because it would appear to them that the Steward is robbing the "Rich Man," and being praised for it by Jesus.  This understanding misses the point of the parable altogether.  It is about using one's resources to enhance one's standing in the sight of God.  Stewards in Jesus' time were agents who were empowered to make the best deal they could for their master, but also for themselves.  So, if the understanding between the Master and the Steward is that the Master is owed 80 bushels of wheat, the Steward can bargain for 100 and keep the extra twenty as a commission.

      In today's parable, the Steward was being accused of some other shady"squandering" of the Master's property.  When he (the Steward) learns he is about to be fired, he goes and re-writes some contracts for less than what his commission might have been.  This makes friends for himself and also makes the Master look good even though he actually gets what he originally wanted.   In a society where "honor" is highly prized, the Master is not about to protest and the Steward now has some new friends who will be obliged to help him when he gets fired.  He is still going to be fired, but the Master commends him for his prudence in this matter, not his dishonesty in regard to other matters for which he was being fired.

     The Gospel According to Luke continually challenges those who are well off to share their wealth with others instead of hoarding it.  Charity is an obligation and not just an option.  Jesus challenges those who have resources to act wisely in using them to help others.  Failure to do this will have long term consequences. Just ask the "Rich Fool"  who hoarded his wealth [Luke 12:13-21] and "Dives" who never noticed Lazarus at his doorstep. [Luke 16:19-32].  The "children of light" are challenged to gain "honor" in the sight of God by acting wisely with their wealth.  AMEN