33RD WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME (WEDNESDAY) IN ORDINARY TIME – YEAR A
THEME: Consider the Source (the Giver)
By: Deacon Bill Frere
Gospel – Luke 19:11-28
Caesarea Philippi
I remember a very elderly aunt of Ginger’s who would always send us greeting cards but never on the right day. Easter card on her birthday, Christmas card on the Fourth of July, that sort of thing! Plus when we opened the envelope, out would pour an assortment of colored tissue paper, neatly cut into tiny bits. Did we ever say anything? Of course not! We understand her situation; we knew she had all the best intentions. And in the end, we knew her heart was in the right place.
I am sure, especially as children, we all had an older relative who did something similar and we just didn’t understand. It took us years and experience to appreciate the effort and realize that the Giver was so much more important than the Gift itself.
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In today’s Gospel, we hear a familiar story of the master going away on a journey and giving his servants gold coins to invest. We have already reflected on a similar parable this past Sunday– the talents. But Luke’s version is just a bit different, a much more detailed storyline.
Think about it! The Master will be leaving soon and He has entrusted precious gifts to His “servants,” He is leaving to become king but He promises that He will return. Many of the people, however, despise Him and do not want Him to return as king. In time, He does return as King and exacts a reckoning with His servants. What did you do with the precious gifts I gave you?
This is not just a simple parable. Jesus is on His way to Jerusalem for the LAST time. He knows He will be tortured and put to death by those who hate Him. He has spent 3 years passing on His message of love, compassion and forgiveness to His followers. He reminds them that He will return to judge their progress. How clear can it be? Jesus is speaking of the End Times, when He will return as King of the Universe.
Perhaps that can be a source of reflection for us today!
Do we really appreciate the Master? Do we understand all the gifts that He has given us? Do we appreciate all His gifts? Even if it is something as simple as hand-made cards crafted with love and affection for others, how have we used His gifts? Maybe it’s time for a “thank-you”!
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