You cannot serve two masters

Rom. 16:3-9.16.22-27, Lk. 16:9-15. Service to God is the call of all who follow the ways of the Lord Jesus. In today's first reading, Paul summarises his whole letter: God has revealed the divine mystery to all who are willing to call upon the name of the Lord Jesus in faith. It was their dedication and hard work, their contributions and efforts which allowed the faith to blossom rapidly in Rome and elsewhere. Paul highlighted how God had called all the people to follow Him, Jews and Gentiles alike, from all origins and from various nations and races that had received His words and answered His call. The goodnews is able to be grasped not only by the Jews but by all people through faith. The purpose of the divine revelation is the glorification of the majesty and mastery of God over all peoples and things. In Jesus, who strengthens us, we have everything. All that is required of us is to choose Jesus over the riches of this world as today's Gospel enjoins us. God demands our undivided attention and services.

Jesus tells His followers that they can only have one thing take the centre stage in their lives. God can be the only master they serve, otherwise they will be enslaved by whatever they make their priority. If they seek wealth or fame, they will have to serve that master and not be free. It is only when we completely submit to God that we have the freedom to live with the wealth that is beyond this world. Anyone or anything which we place on the throne of our lives has power over us. It can lead us to serve that which is in the centre of our lives. We lose our freedom when we serve anything or anyone except Lord Jesus. When we place Jesus on the throne of our lives, we end up being liberated to act as disciples of our Lord Jesus. We are empowered to act like Jesus and work for the good of others and of ourselves.

May the Lord empower us to follow Him wholeheartedly, that we may find our way to the Lord and dedicate our time and attention to Him! Amen!! Good morning and have a wonderful weekend!!!