Rev. Zach

First Presbyterian of Lafayette, LA September 19, 2010 - Ordinary 25C Jeremiah 8:18 - 9:1 1 Timothy 2:1-7 Luke 16:1-13 Reality TV is an oxymoron that has, unfortunately, been around too long to dismiss. Obviously, there are a lot of people who like the idea of television shows that offer real people in unreal situations, and I will admit that we are far too interested in shows like America’s Funniest Home Videos and The Biggest Loser at the Sasser house. The Apprentice is a show I have never found interest in, but I think Jesus would have liked it. At least it would seem so, based on today’s gospel lesson. For the audience of the day, the parable of the dishonest manager was as reality-driven as a story could get. It’s full of sin, greed, and human failing wrapped up in resilience that wins the day. Perhaps it’s the title that kept it from getting the ratings that, say, “The Good Samaritan,” has gotten. People want to be “good.” People do prefer to survive, and w...