25th Sunday in Ordinary Time, Year C: A Call to Use Our Gifts Wisely by Fr Olowolagba

By Joseph Iyaji on 21/09/25 • ( Leave a comment )

25th Sunday in Ordinary Time, Year C: A Call to Use Our Gifts Wisely

By Rev. Fr Stevenson Olowolagba | Akahi News

Theme: Beware of the Dangers and Consequences of Misusing Our Gifts and Talents

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Beloved in Christ, peace be with you.

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On this 25th Sunday in Ordinary Time, the Word of God invites us to reflect deeply on the blessings, talents, and opportunities entrusted to us by the Lord. Each of us has been given gifts—some spiritual, some material—and today’s readings call us to account for how we use them in our daily lives.

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God’s Warning Through the Prophet Amos

In the first reading (Amos 8:4–7), the Prophet Amos delivers a powerful warning to the rich and powerful who exploit the poor and neglect justice. The Lord declares: “I will never forget any of their deeds.”

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This message reminds us that God is both just and merciful. While He blesses us abundantly, He also calls us to use those blessings for the good of others. Exploiting the vulnerable or misusing resources for selfish gain leads to spiritual consequences that cannot be ignored. As Scripture teaches, whatever we sow, we shall reap.

St Paul and the Power of Prayer

In the second reading (1 Timothy 2:1–8), St Paul urges Timothy and all believers to pray for everyone—especially for those in authority—so that their decisions may bring peace, justice, and blessings to society.

Prayer, Paul insists, is not just a private devotion but a powerful act of intercession. We are called to be intercessors like Christ Himself, the one true mediator between God and humanity. Our prayers must spring from hearts free from anger, resentment, or pride, reflecting faith in God’s power to transform lives and situations.

The Gospel Challenge: Faithful Stewardship of God’s Gifts

The Gospel (Luke 16:1–13) presents the story of a steward accused of mismanaging his master’s property. Instead of repentance, he resorts to worldly cunning to protect his future.

Jesus observes that the “children of this world” often show more shrewdness in securing material wealth than the “children of light” show in pursuing eternal life. This is a sobering reminder that God has entrusted each of us with talents, opportunities, and responsibilities. How we use them will one day be accounted for before the Lord.

Lessons for Christians and Ministers Today

This Sunday’s readings call ministers of the Word, leaders, and all believers to handle their responsibilities with integrity, humility, and sincerity. Sadly, some misuse their gifts through false teachings, selfish ambition, or careless living. Yet the message remains clear:

Use your talents for God’s glory, not personal gain.
Approach your calling with prayer, humility, and honesty.
Learn from past mistakes and embrace a new life of faithful service.

A Call to Repentance and Renewal

As we begin a new week, the Gospel invites us to reflect: are we using our gifts wisely? Are we faithful stewards of the opportunities God has given us? If not, today is the time to turn back, seek forgiveness, and start anew.

Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father, we thank You for the blessings, gifts, and opportunities You have entrusted to us. Grant us the wisdom to use them faithfully, the courage to repent when we fall short, and the grace to serve others with love and humility. May Your Spirit guide us in all things so that our lives may bring glory to Your name. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.