4 November 2022
Memorial of Saint Charles Borromeo, Bishop
In today’s gospel, known as the parable of the dishonest steward, a rich man learns that his steward has been squandering his property. Knowing that he will most likely lose his job, the steward ingratiates himself to the debtors by having them write promissory notes without the steward’s usurious profit. The master ends up commending him for acting prudently.
Prudence is a virtue that can be defined as showing care and thought for the future. For the steward, his prudent behavior comes from his self-knowledge. “I am not strong enough to dig and I am ashamed to beg,” he says to himself. The honesty he initially lacks in his stewardship is nevertheless present in his self-assessment, which prompts his prudent behavior.
In our own lives, do we dare to take an honest look and speak frankly about our vices and virtues, strengths and weaknesses? Fortunately for us, we are not left to our own devices, but we are always accompanied by God’s loving gaze. May it lead us to a place of truth, honesty, and prudence.