Homily for the 18th Sunday in Ordinary Time

Our Scripture readings today may seem to criticize wealth, but they really challenge us to use our resources wisely and for the benefit of others. God does not have a problem with our success. The psalmist of old often prayed that God would “prosper the work of our hands.”

What God really desires is for us to utilize our wealth, our gifts, and the fruitful work of our hands to make a positive impact on the lives of others.

We live in a society where many people are overwhelmed by possessions and busy schedules, where countless individuals pursue more and strive to build new “barns” to store their excess. To be people of faith and true disciples of the Gospel, we must start by emptying ourselves of our material belongings to create space for God to dwell within us. All three of today’s readings warn against the futility of chasing after wealth and celebrity.

The most tragic form of poverty is living a life filled with material things but devoid of a relationship with God. Christ calls us to “think of what is above, not of what is on earth”—to focus on love, forgiveness, compassion, mercy, and gratitude. God has given us this precious and wonderful life to embrace and be embraced by His selfless and affirming love, and to learn how to love one another as God loves us.

Let us pray that we may use our earthly wealth and treasures in ways that will help us in our journey toward the real and everlasting treasure of heaven.