The parable of the dishonest steward is probably one of the most problematic in the gospel. Here, we have Jesus recommending a crafty and obviously self-serving trickster as the model for discipleship. It is one thing to dissociate oneself from the hypocritical regime of the Pharisees and Scribes and to associate oneself with sinners, but here Jesus even seems to be condoning sinful behaviour.

But is this the meaning of the parable? The rest of chapter 16 would put the problem to rest. The parable is in fact a good introduction to a 'problematic' chapter on money, marriage, heaven, and hell: practical things that need a practical solution. Jesus is actually preparing his audience for the simple common-sense logic that lies behind the teachings in Chapter 16. Read in this context, the parable is basically expounding the homely wisdom of 'making the best of things' even if they may appear to be 'bad things.' Taking stock of his threatening and critical situation, the steward thus drew on his worldly wisdom and acted cleverly and resolutely in providing for his future. In the face of crisis and death, we too must come to realize the fragility of our lives and the urgent necessity to make preparations and reset our priorities. The parable also speaks to us of the importance of stewardship. We are not the 'owners,' but merely stewards of all that has been given to us - time, talent, resources. All these must be managed responsibly with justice and holiness.