In the Sunday lectionary cycle the Parable of the Prodigal Son (Luke 15:11-32) is followed today by the Parable of the Dishonest Steward (Luke 16:1-13).

Both stories of Jesus highlight figures who waste what they graciously received and the crisis that ensues.

The younger son wastes his father’s wealth (15:13) while the anger of the older son displays his tragically having squandered his own opportunity (15:28).

Similarly, the dishonest steward misuses that which does not belong to him (16:1).

Both parables portray figures who have things that do not belong to them. These characters are stewards, not owners.

In today’s Gospel, the dishonest steward ultimately is praised by the owner because he came to acquire what matters most, namely friends and supporters (read: relationships).

Temporary things – wealth, power, pleasure, honor – truly are not ours and assuredly pass away. We all walk across the earthly stage as stewards. Therefore, it is for us to use all God graciously makes possible to obtain that which is eternal.