Much Will Be Required

Homily for Wednesday of the 29th Week in Ordinary Time

On Facebook the other day, I saw a message that asked if anyone still kept a calendar on their wall. Of course, the comment was made because people nowadays tend to keep their calendars on their computer or on their phones. So whether we actually hang one on the wall or simply use some modern technology, calendars are still an integral part of our lives.

However, there is one date that none of us can put on our calendars; namely, we don’t know the time of the Second Coming of Christ. Consequently, the Gospel constantly reminds us that we must be prepared.

Peter seems to be confused by the message that Jesus utters today so he asks for clarification. In typical fashion Jesus chooses to answer by offering another parable about the responsibilities of the steward. It applies to all of us: Much will be required of the person entrusted with much, and still more will be demanded of the person entrusted with more.

Down through the ages, the saints have read this admonition. Some found the statement somewhat scary. St. Augustine wrote, “I am terrified by what I am for you.” St. Ambrose wrote to the priests under his care that they would be severely punished if they neglected their duties.

We have to admit that we have been given much. We have received the blessings of a strong faith and a beautiful vocation. In addition, each of us has received various gifts and graces. Though no two of us is exactly alike, we all have been blessed with gifts or charisms that define who we are. In the Letter to the Ephesians, we hear Paul talk about his gift of preaching the Gospel.

As we approach the altar today to receive the Body and Blood of our Savior, let us pause to give thanks for the gifts we have received and resolve to use those gifts in the service of the Gospel.

Fr. Lawrence Jagdfeld, O.F.M., Administrator