Weekly Gospel Reflection

In this week’s Gospel, Jesus shares a parable. A man distributes talents (coins) to his servants, assigning different amounts based on their abilities, before leaving for an extended period. The servants use their money differently, with two investing and providing a return to their master, while the third loses his money, having nothing to give upon the master's return.

So, what does this parable have to do with us and our lives?  First, like the servants, we are all given talents and resources. Each of us is endowed with unique gifts—our personalities, creativity, and genetics. But how do we use them? Some of us employ our creativity to solve problems in our community or beyond. Others, with warm and welcoming personalities, extend kindness even to the most marginalized. However, some, despite their blessings, hoard what they have for themselves, potentially wasting their intelligence on selfish ends or remaining bystanders to injustice.

A second lesson from this parable is that the master returns, holding each servant accountable for their use of the coins. This truth extends to each of us as well. Ultimately, we will all pass away and be accountable to God for the actions we have taken on Earth.

The parable reminds me of an old Irish story. A man, having died, approaches heaven's gates. St. Peter asks to see his hands to observe any scars. The man replies, “I have no scars.” St. Peter remarks, “What a pity, was there nothing worth fighting for?” This story aligns with Jesus’ parable, emphasizing our call to use the gifts we've been given to tackle challenges and, more importantly, do what is right.

This week, we are challenged to use our talents to help others around us. Consider asking a family member about your strengths and reflect on how you might use them to assist others. This could range from inviting someone over for dinner whom you haven’t seen in a while to joining a community organization.

By Jonathan Rooney 

Religious Education Leader 

Dear Lord, 

 We thank you for our talents and gifts. Help us strive to use them wisely for the benefit of our special community. 

Guide us to fulfil your plan for each of us. Give us the grace to be humble, respectful and tolerant this day and all the days of our lives.

St John Vianney, 

Pray for us.