Do we practice good habits?
This 25th Sunday in Ordinary Time invites us to reflect on those familiar
routines that shape our actions. Each of us has our own set of habits, some good
and others not so good. The Gospel reading from St. Luke gives us a thoughtprovoking story about a steward who faces being let go because he was
wasteful. As he realizes he might be dismissed, he takes a bold and somewhat
risky step by changing his master’s debtors’ accounts, hoping to secure a better
future for himself.
The steward’s actions remind us that bad habits, like dishonesty and
manipulation, often grow slowly. They usually begin as small ethical slips that, if
ignored, can turn into serious moral faults. The message in this parable is clear:
without quick action, small wrongdoings can lead to bigger injustices, such as the
oppression and exploitation of the poor which the Prophet Amos mentions in
today’s first reading. On the other hand, Jesus urges us to develop good habits.
He tells us an important truth, “The person who is trustworthy in very small
matters is also trustworthy in great ones.” Our character is displayed through
even the tiniest choices. Practicing honesty in small things builds a solid
foundation for handling larger responsibilities.
At the heart of our spiritual journey is the special relationship we have with
God and the trust He lovingly places in us. This trust is a precious gift that
reminds us to be responsible with everything we’ve been given, including the
precious gift of prayer. God invites us to use this gift wisely so we can spread
goodness and kindness in the world. In the second reading, St. Paul tells us to
pray for everyone, especially for those in authority. When we offer our prayers,
petitions, and thanksgivings, we open our hearts to live with purpose and
integrity, always seeking to align our actions with God’s loving will. Prayer has
the power to nurture and strengthen our positive habits, helping us face
challenges with hope and continually pursue goodness.
Dear brothers and sisters, today’s readings remind us to carefully consider
the habits we cherish and those we might want to change. Let’s strive to become
people of integrity in both small and big matters. In doing so, we fulfill our
responsibilities and honor God. We are called to be faithful stewards of our
actions and prayers, making a positive impact in our families and communities,
by fostering a spirit of justice and kindness every day. Let’s commit to cultivating
habits that truly reflect our core values, helping us to grow and make the world a
brighter place through our choices and prayers.Rev. Dominic Toan Tran, Pastor