Just Share!

33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time

Matthew 25:14-30

Described in first reading is the image of a pious, perfect wife, excelling in virtues and good works.  She truly becomes the joy of her husband.

Today's gospel, the parable of the talents, calls us to be the same for our Lord, who is our bridegroom.  He gives us ample time till his second coming for us to maximize the use of our gifts at his pleasure and for the good of others.

The useless one who buried the talent to the ground symbolizes a person who despite God's gifts is not interested in sharing and even investing it for the future.  Thinking that the talent is mainly to benefit himself, he will not do anything to benefit others, thus, hiding the talent on the ground.

As in the readings, what then constitutes a fruitful life?

First, a life that is focused on pleasing the beloved

Remember the industrious wife and her relationship to her husband.  How true it is when a man and woman becomes one; when his visions and goals coincides with her, and as one body, they journey together.  Such is us and God if it is clear to us that our life's mission is to give joy to the Master instead of pleasing ourselves.

Second, a life that utilizes its own free will to please the beloved

The ample time of the master's absence did not deter the industrious stewards to fulfill their mission.  Self-motivated, their lives are abundant in blessings.  Such is also our lives here on earth, fruitful in spite of the Lord's seeming "absence" that we still utilize all gifts only for him.

Third, a life that shares itself to others

"Come share in your master's joy" is the utterance of the master as he expresses his satisfaction over the fruitful servant.  "Sharing" is truly a magical word.  When joy is shared, two persons and more are affected by that joy.  How much more when we share our gifts to the poor and help them get up.  We shall fulfill the Lord's remarks are we enter into heaven, "Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me" (Mat 25: 40).

We still can share our time, talents, and treasures for God and others.

Reflect: What have I shared lately to others for the greater glory of God?