On Judgment Day, we will be held accountable for how we managed what God has given us. "When much has been given a man, much will be required of him. More will be asked of a man to whom more has been entrusted" (Lk 12:48). God will hold us accountable for our management of money, possessions, time, talents, education, opportunities, skills, sexuality, abilities, etc.

The Lord holds us strictly accountable for everything we are and have (see Heb 4:13). "On judgment day people will be held accountable for every unguarded word they speak" (Mt 12:36). We are accountable for a right and full use of our hands, eyes, ears, feet, etc. If we have a car that seats five, we should use all the seats as often as we can. If we have the opportunity to attend Mass daily, we have one of the greatest opportunities possible. Consequently, we will be held strictly accountable for celebrating Mass as often as possible, even daily.

In a starving world, we have an even greater responsibility not to accumulate money, but use it for the poor. With few workers in God's harvest, we must be even more careful not to waste God's time. Stewardship is an overwhelming responsibility, but the Lord is merciful. He will forgive us for not being good stewards. He will also give us the grace to do whatever we do for His glory (1 Cor 10:31).

Rescript:  †Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, February 1, 2011

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