Reflection on the Readings

11-14-2020Weekly ReflectionFr. James Aboyi

Our Scripture readings this weekend focus on the theme of “Spiritual investment.” The First Reading from the Book of Proverbs speaks of a virtuous wife that bears fruit in all things. She is very creative, using every opportunity presented to her to make her family a happy home.

In the Gospel, Jesus gives us a parable to illustrate how we can invest our talents spiritually. In this parable, we see that the man who went on a journey represents Jesus, who ascended to heaven after his resurrection. The servants represent you and me. The money symbolizes our God-given talents. In his absence, Jesus expects us to use our talents to build up his kingdom. The emphasis in this story is on the man with the least amount of money, or talents. He made no effort to trade with his talent for fear of losing it. He probably thought that he had so little in comparison to the others that he could be excused.

Many Catholics are minimalist like this third servant. We often see ourselves as not possessing enough talents and conclude that there is nothing that we can offer. Every one of us has received at least one talent from God. We have received the gift of life, faith and love, among others. Our responsibility as people of faith is not just to preserve and “keep” the faith; we need to grow the faith by promoting and sharing the faith with others. This is a mission that brings with it much risk and inconvenience. But, unless we do this, we stand in danger of losing the faith.

Are you a good reader but afraid to share your gift as a lector for Mass? Do you love singing but fear your voice is not good enough to join the parish choir? Are you afraid of commitment so you shy away from a particular ministry in the Church? If so, the parable today is an invitation for you! Let us not be afraid to share the master’s talents given to us. Please give us a call in the parish office or send an email and we will be more than willing to help you sign up to join any parish ministry here at St. Benedict.

Thank you and remain blessed,

Fr. James

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