The parable of the unjust Steward gives mixed signals

[antonabe]

The parable of the unjust Steward is difficult to comprehend.The Master has found the Steward unjust but acknowledges that the shrewd Steward has done well by halving the debts owed to him with a view of gaining the goodwill of the debtors as an insurance.Can this be clearly explained.

 

[NotWorthy]

Yes, that is a tough one. But one should focus on the zeal the servant has for getting what he wants. We should approach God with that same zeal, if not the same (lack of) ethics.

Here’s what the Navarre Bible says:

  	 				“*Of course, our Lord presumes that we realize the immorality of the man’s behavior. What he emphasizes and praises, however, is his shrewdness and effort: he tries to derive maximum material advantage from his former position as steward. *

In saving our soul and spreading the Kingdom of God, our Lord wants us to apply at least the same ingenuity and effort as people put into their worldly affairs or their attempts to attain some human ideal. The fact that we can count on God’s grace does not in any way exempt us from the need to employ all available legitimate human resources even if that means strenuous effort and heroic sacrifice.” (Navarre)

   		 			 				“*What zeal people put into their earthly affairs… When you and I put the same zeal into the affairs of our souls, we will have a living and working faith. And there will be no obstacle that we cannot overcome in our apostolic works*.”  (St. J. Escriva`, *The Way*).

 

[antonabe]

Could it also be that we are looking at a situation in a different era where the Masters honour is involved.When people informed the Master about the unjust deals of the Steward the hint of dishonesty would have lowered the honour and esteem of the Master.By reducing the Debts by half not only did the Steward gain in popularirty but also the Master’s image as a honorable man was restored.Believe that is the reason we are advised that if we give in this world we collect our reward in Heaven