“Faith is the realization of what is hoped for
and evidence of things not seen.”
Hebrews 11:1
In today’s Second Reading FROM Hebrews 11:1-2, 8-19 we hear of how Abraham traveled not knowing where he was going to go, entering the promised land. He dwelt in tents, symbolic of transiency as did his descendants Isaac and Jacob, hoping one day the promised land would one day bloom into a city with a firm foundation. Despite Sarah and Abraham’s inability to bear a child and their old age, Abraham hoped for the numerous descendants promised him. Once they conceived Isaac, their long awaited heir, Abraham was willing to do the unthinkable that was asked of him – sacrifice his son – until an angel of the Lord called everything to a halt, indicating that this was a test from God. Abraham becomes a prototype of what all believers should do: walk by faith and not sight, even when certain requests seem devoid of logic.
Today’s Gospel from Luke 12:32-48 comprises the parable of the unprepared steward. Left in charge of his master’s property, the steward takes advantage of his absence by mistreating the hired hands, sloughing off on his duties and overindulging in drink and revelry. Their will be a harsh encounter when the owner arrives at a time not expected. The Gospel ends with Jesus stating “that much will be required of the person
entrusted with much, and still more will be demanded of the person entrusted with more. Throughout this entire passage, the emphasis has been on accepting the fact that no one knows when the final end will happen. Therefore, be safe by being prepared constantly.” [Sunday Homily Helps, Franciscan Media]
We pray that like Abraham and Sarah we may be open to journeying wherever our faith may lead us; may we live our faith every moment of our lives, not only when it is convenient for us to do so.