Let's take another look at this interesting story. The manager knew his time was running out. He had blown it, and his job was on the line.
When you get to be 60 years old and you get fired, it's tough to get another decent job. Dig ditches? "I'm not strong enough." Beg? "No way." What, then?
The shrewd manager used his leverage while he still had some. As he cut the debts of his master's clients, they became indebted to him. After all, one good turn deserves another, right?
In his assessment of this story, Jesus neither ignored the man's wrongdoing nor endorsed a "You scratch my back, I'll scratch yours" way of life. But he made clear that the master recognized the man's shrewdness and commended him for that.
What about you? In this age we are living in, when we know Jesus could return at any time, are you being shrewd with your use of time and money? Are you storing up treasures for yourself on earth, or are you helping others in Jesus' name, as he calls us to, and thus storing up treasure in heaven?
Soon all the riches and valued things of the world will rot and come to nothing. "You cannot serve both God and Money," says Jesus. Which one are you serving? Ask God for guidance in serving him today.
God of wisdom and understanding, teach us how we may serve you well each day. May we, too, be welcomed into your eternal dwellings in the name of Jesus. Amen.
About the author — John Van Schepen
Dr. John Van Schepen is a retired pastor who served churches in Washington, Wisconsin, Indiana, Oregon and California. He and his wife, Willie, have been blessed with five children and several grandchildren.
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