Today's Gospel reading challenges us, as disciples of Jesus, to be: prudent and decisive. In the parable, Jesus praised the dishonest servant for recognising the critical situation and acting decisively.

In today's context, we see how leaders of many countries act decisively and work hard to achieve their goals. Do we, as followers of Jesus, respond with the same enthusiasm in our responses to the calls of the Holy Spirit in our own realities?

The steward/servant represents 'the children of the world' who know how to cope with situations. Their dishonest, shrewd, decisive and enthusiastic responses are contrasted with that of the disciples of Jesus.

The first reading raised the question of injustice, especially in exploiting the weak and poor by dishonest means (Amos 8: 5-6). Obsession with money and power are obstacles to Christian growth in our relationship with God. These (money and power) are means and not an end to a challenging situation faced so often in our daily lives.

Let us be reminded by the second reading as in 1 Tim 2:5 (For there is one God and one mediator between God and men). We cannot give in to dishonesty and lying but are called to be teachers of true faith to all.