In the Gospel this weekend, we learn that it isn't enough to just show up and stand on the sidelines when it comes to living our faith and being a member of Corpus Christi. Jesus's words also carry special weight towards those with means, those who have a seat at the table so to speak. His words are a call for us to notice those who do not have means and to place them in positions of honor. For those who have much – much is expected.
When Jesus said, “Where your treasure is, there also will your heart be” (Mt 6:21), He was not just talking about money—He was talking about our priorities. Stewardship of treasure means placing our financial and material resources at the service of God’s mission, as a joyful response to His blessings.
I think of Linda and Mark, a young couple in our parish. When they got married, they made a decision: the first portion of every paycheck would go to the Church. “We wanted giving to be our first priority, not our leftover,” Linda says, “we trust that the parish will do great things with every dollar with give.” Even during tight months, they keep this commitment, trusting God to provide for their needs.
This is exactly what the Church calls us to in giving—not equal gifts, but equal sacrifice. The measure is not the amount given, but the love and generosity behind it. The poor widow in the Gospel gave “all she had to live on” (Lk 21:4), not because she had much, but because she trusted God completely.
When we give to God through the Church, we are participating in His work of evangelization, service, and mercy. Our parish ministries, our outreach to the poor, our ability to form young people in the faith—all of these depend on the generosity of the faithful. The Catechism teaches that “the faithful are obliged to assist with the material needs of the Church, each according to his own ability” (CCC 2043).
Stewardship of treasure is also an act of worship. Just as we offer bread and wine at Mass to be transformed into the Body and Blood of Christ, we offer our financial gifts for God to transform into works of love and mercy.
This week, reflect on your giving. Does it reflect my trust in God’s providence? Is it a priority or an afterthought? Every gift, no matter the size, becomes part of something eternal when it is offered with faith and joy.
God Bless,
