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Reflection by Liam Doherty, Catholic Identity and Religious Education Adviser, Diocese of Sale Catholic Education Ltd,
This past week has brought a profound shift in our family life. Our youngest son has embarked on a remarkable journey to Vietnam, having been awarded a prestigious scholarship to live, study, and work there for a year. My wife travelled with him to help him settle in, leaving me at home with the quiet responsibility of maintaining our household.
Initially, the silence was overwhelming. The house felt empty, and the absence of both my son and wife weighed heavily. I found myself alone, not just physically, but emotionally, grappling with the reality of a year-long separation and the immediate solitude.
Yet, as the days passed, a deeper awareness emerged. I realised I had been entrusted with a form of stewardship. It was now my responsibility to care for our home, not just to keep it clean and functional, but to ensure it remained a place of comfort, love, and welcome. I needed to prepare it for my wife’s return next week, and eventually, for our son’s return in twelve months. This task, though simple on the surface, carried emotional and spiritual weight.
In this Sunday’s Gospel, Jesus speaks to his disciples with tenderness, calling them his “little flock” and assuring them of the Father’s desire to give them the Kingdom. But this comfort is paired with a challenge: to be vigilant, prepared, and faithful stewards. The Gospel invites us to live with holy anticipation, not out of fear, but out of love and trust.
Just as I’ve been entrusted with the care of our home, we are all entrusted with the care of God’s Kingdom. In our lives as individuals, workers, community members, and family members, we are called to be faithful stewards, watchful, generous, and ready. Jesus reminds us that “to whom much is given, much will be required.” Our daily choices, our care for others, and our commitment to justice and compassion are all part of this stewardship.
This Gospel also prompts us to reflect on our priorities. Are we investing in what truly matters acts of kindness, moments of prayer, choices rooted in love, or are we distracted by what is fleeting? Jesus calls us to live with purpose, trusting in God’s providence and preparing our hearts for His return.
Let us ask ourselves:
How am I living in readiness for Christ, in my work, my relationships, my prayer?
What does faithful stewardship look like in my current season of life?
How can I help others recognise the joy and responsibility of belonging to God’s “little flock”?
May we be found faithful, watchful, and generous, always ready to welcome the Master with joy.
