Stewardship

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Recently there was a glowing story in the daily paper describing the glittering Crystal Ball, a sumptuous entertainment gala to benefit the homeless. To benefit the homeless? How altruistic! The admission fee, though exorbitant, could not possibly have matched the cost of the designer gowns, expensive jewelry, cost of entertainment and exquisite cuisine. They gave what cost them nothing; it was painless and really seemed to be thoroughly enjoyed by one and all.

All around town thousands of colored lights shine on gold-plated mangers in nativity scenes in front of mansions. Just a tad different from the real one in Bethelehem, yes? It's a leap--and not necessarily of faith.

The same disconnect occurred with the rich young ruler who asked Jesus what else he needed to do beside rule-keeping. "Sell everything you have, give it to the poor, and come follow me." Oops! He loved his money more than he loved his neighbor.

And one of the most blatant cases of not getting it: the poor deluded Pharisees who worried about defiling themselves by going into the Judgment Hall as they prepared to crucify the very Son of God. You see, if they had
defiled themselves, they would not have been able to eat the Passover which was coming up!

We bend over backward to keep ourselves ceremonially clean but neglect the weightier matters: mercy, justice and faith. Why can't we see the sad irony is all of this?

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