November 6, Friday Weekday

The Lord has revealed to the nations his saving power.-- Psalm 98:(see 2)

Mass readings: Romans 15:14-21 / Luke 16:1-8

Art of Being Smart

I've always wondered why Jesus didn't come right out and criticize the steward's dishonesty. But as I kept re-reading today's parable, I zeroed in on verse 8: the steward is not praised because he's unrighteous, but because he acted shrewdly. Why do we Christians give shrewdness a bad name? Perhaps it's because we are so often shrewd with sinful motives and selfish objectives. But being shrewd (or smart) isn't a sin. Jesus showed himself extremely smart in His dealings with the Pharisees and Scribes. And when sending out the Twelve on mission, He commanded, ''Be shrewd as serpents and simple as doves'' (Mt 10:16).

It boils down to motivation. Are we acting smart for selfish gain? Or are we shrewdly employing our God-given intelligence and investing our God-given abilities to further God's kingdom?

Prayer: Lord, teach me the art of being smart like You, for You.