25th Sunday of the Year – Faith that guides and directs our lives

Study:  Recall a time when you witnessed a leader make a decision informed by Christian faith.  How did it strengthen those affected?

Pray:  Are you troubled by an issue in business or politics right now?  Ask the Lord for guidance to proceed with your actions.

Serve:  Is there some way that you can make a difference in your local community?  How might your life help the people around you?

Mass Readings – 25th Sunday of the Year

This Sunday’s scripture readings give us a practical perspective from which to view some “real world” issues that surface in daily life.

• 1st Reading – God’s rebuke about bad business practices
• Psalm – “Praise the Lord who lifts up the poor.”
• 2nd Reading – Pray for our civic leaders
• Gospel – A parable about using wealth to secure lasting relationships

And who says the Church shouldn’t talk about Business & Politics?!  The prophet Amos offers harsh words about those who cheat to make a profit, and Timothy urges the community to pray for those in authority “that we may lead a quiet and tranquil life.”

Far from out of touch, these passages remind us yet again of the timeless quality of Scripture to speak to enduring human concerns.  Our communities rely on a strong and supportive leadership that fosters peace and prosperity.  Amid political rhetoric we are constantly reminded that we are as strong as we are united, and as weak as we are divided.

Thus the Gospel helps us understand that “God and Mammon” cannot compete with one another; rather, we put the Lord first and see our work and social interactions through the eyes of faith.  Money and natural resources are crucial for human life to thrive, and when people are cooperating and stewarding these practical elements under the guidance of a clear moral vision we discover the power that our faith in Jesus Christ brings to all aspects of our lives.