Spiritual Reflection: Faithful in Little, Faithful in Much

In Luke 16:1–13, Jesus tells the story of a steward who, upon learning he will be dismissed for mismanaging his master’s property, acts shrewdly to secure his future. He reduces the debts of his master’s debtors, hoping they will welcome him later. Surprisingly, the master commends the steward—not for his dishonesty, but for his cleverness in preparing for what lies ahead.

This parable is not an endorsement of deceit, but a challenge to us: Are we as intentional and strategic in our spiritual lives as we are in our worldly pursuits?

Jesus contrasts “the children of this world” with “the children of light,” noting that the former are often more prudent in dealing with their affairs. It’s a sobering observation. We plan our careers, finances, and social lives meticulously, yet how often do we invest that same energy into our relationship with God? Do we prepare for eternity with the same urgency we apply to temporary concerns?

The steward’s actions also raise questions about trust. Jesus concludes the parable with a powerful teaching: “Whoever is faithful in very little is also faithful in much.” This invites us to examine how we handle the small things—our time, our resources, our responsibilities. Are we trustworthy stewards of what God has entrusted to us?

Moreover, the Gospel draws a stark line between serving God and serving wealth. “You cannot serve both God and mammon.” This isn’t just about money—it’s about allegiance. What governs our decisions? What do we prioritize when no one is watching? The heart of discipleship lies in choosing God above all else, even when the world tempts us with comfort, status, or security.

In a world that often rewards cleverness over character, this Gospel reminds us that true wisdom lies in aligning our lives with God’s purposes. The steward prepared for his future with urgency—how much more should we prepare for the eternal life God offers?

Let us be faithful in the small things, generous with what we’ve been given, and wise in choosing whom we serve. May our hearts be undivided, our stewardship honest, and our lives a reflection of the Kingdom we seek.