Thirty Third Sunday of the year (Year A)

Thirty Third Sunday of the year - November 19, 2023

Proverbs 31:10-13.19-20.30-31; 1 Thessalonians 5:1-6; Matthew 25:14-30

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A man got mad with God. “God,” he said, I have been praying daily for three years that I should win the state lottery. You told us to ask and we shall receive. How come I never received all these three years I have been asking?” Then he heard the voice of God, loud and clear. “My dear son,” says God. “Please do me a favour and buy a lottery ticket.”

This story tells us that “If you wanna win, you got to play.” There are two kinds of people around us today: risk-takers and care-takers. The problem with caretakers is that they might show up at the undertaker’s with little to show for the lives they have lived. Jesus warns us against this in today’s gospel Parable of the Talents.

We can make note of some points in today’s First Reading. It is from the Book of Proverbs; speaks of a very productive wife that bears fruit in all things. She never sits idle, using every opportunity presented to her to increase the family wealth. Because of her qualities, she is far more precious than jewels. This capable wife is trustworthy. The husband can count on her to be faithful and productive for the betterment of the home. From the money that she managed to save, she invests in land. There, she plants a garden in hope of selling the fruits of the seeds that she plants. Not counting the hours that come and go, night and day, she works long hours.  While tending to the worldly needs of the family, she also tends to her spiritual needs and the needs of others. She gives generously to those in need. To those seeking comfort, she speaks gentle words, only wisdom coming from her mouth. Her children, who are well raised in values and ways of the Lord, show appreciation by thanking her and praising her for being such wonderful mother. Even her husband recognizes the treasure that he has in his possession, the best of the best.

The gospel of the day is not a narrative that speaks just of financial stewardship but of the broader concept of using our gifts wisely.

This parable resonates deeply in our lives. The talents symbolize the unique gifts and abilities God bestows upon each of us. They're not merely monetary; they encompass our skills, time, compassion, and creativity. We're called to employ these gifts actively, not merely preserve them out of fear or complacency.

Each of us has a role in the larger tapestry of existence. Some possess leadership qualities, others excel in empathy, while some exhibit remarkable craftsmanship. Regardless of the nature of our talents, it's the responsibility entrusted upon us to nurture and utilize them for the greater good.

Often, fear holds us back. Fear of failure, rejection, or inadequacy can immobilize us, making us bury our talents instead of allowing them to flourish. However, the parable challenges this fear-driven mind-set. It invites us to step out in faith, to take risks, and to engage actively in utilizing our talents, knowing that growth often emerges from taking these leaps.

Moreover, the parable urges us to consider the concept of accountability. The master in the story expected accountability from his servants upon his return. Similarly, we're accountable to God and to one another for how we use our gifts. Are we employing our talents to uplift others, to bring about positive change, and to enrich the world around us?

The message extends beyond individual actions; it resonates within communities and society as a whole. How are we, collectively, leveraging our collective talents for the common good? Are we investing in education, fostering inclusivity, caring for the marginalized, and addressing societal challenges through collaborative efforts?

As we ponder these questions, we're reminded of the transformative power of community and solidarity. Each individual's talents contribute to the collective progress and well-being. By recognizing, appreciating, and celebrating diverse talents, we create an environment where everyone can thrive.

Ultimately, this parable isn't just about success or failure; it's about the attitude and disposition we adopt towards our gifts and opportunities. It's a call to embrace a mind-set of abundance rather than scarcity—to see our talents as opportunities to make a positive impact rather than as burdens or risks.

Let this Sunday serve as a catalyst for introspection and action. Let's not bury our talents out of fear but instead invest them generously, trusting that in doing so, we participate in building a world that reflects love, compassion, and justice for all. It is not worth complaining to God that He is inactive in the world. Let us do what we can and God will do what we cannot.  

Happy Sunday