I Corinthians 4:1--2 Let a man so account of us, as of the ministers of Christ, and stewards of the mysteries of God. Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful. --KJV
In the name of the Master of the stewards, amen.
As we continue to look at the holy ministry, we see that our ministers are stewards of the mysteries of God. By mysteries we mean the holy sacraments and the Gospel. These things are true mysteries, that is, they are things that have a connection to the Divine. Our ministers, called by the Holy Spirit through the Church, are stewards of the mysteries of God. They handle them, and give us what we need when we need it.
We must look at the words of St. Paul quoted above, and question if we really hold such a proper view of our ministers. Do we give them such respect? Or do we find ourselves complaining about them and talking behind their backs, rather than praying for them and encouraging them. It is very easy for us to find fault in their frail human flesh, but the fact remains that they are men that God Himself has called to serve us with His divine mysteries!
The ironic thing is that the very men we complain about dispense the forgiveness we need for such sins. And they will gladly dispense it to us if they are faithful stewards as St. Paul, writing by inspiration of the Holy Spirit, tells us they must be. The faithful steward finds great joy in dispensing the mysteries of God to His holy people. May you always have faithful stewards to dispense the mysteries of God to you. Amen.
Prayer: Dear Lord Jesus, in Your concern for Your people You have called ministers to be stewards of the mysteries of Your Grace. Forgive us for the way that we often speak of Your ministers. When we are guilty of speaking against Your ministers, help us to turn to them for the forgiveness they dispense. Also help them to be faithful and dispense forgiveness, even when we have sinned against them. Bless Your Church throughout the world by continuing to provide faithful ministers who look to the good of Your people, and the glory of Your holy name, amen.