Once there was a man who was about to leave home on a trip; he called his servants and put them in charge of his property. He gave to each one according to his ability ... After a long time the master of those servants came back and settled accounts with them. [Matthew 25:14-15,19 NCV]
Jesus speaks of three different ways that people deal with life and money.
To the first servant who doubled the master's investment he says:
‘You have been faithful in managing small amounts, so I will put you in charge of large amounts. Come on in and share my happiness!’To the second servant who also doubled the master's investment he says:
‘Well done, you good and faithful servant!’ said his master. ‘You have been faithful in managing small amounts, so I will put you in charge of large amounts. Come on in and share my happiness!’To the last servant who buried the masters money he says:
‘You bad and lazy servant!’ ... you should have deposited my money in the bank, and I would have received it all back with interest when I returned.I sometimes think that faithfulness is the currency of the kingdom.
We grow spiritually when we are faithful with the things God has invested in us.
This parable indicates that, today and in our last hour, this quality is so very important.
When I think about abilities I remember how unique each one of us is.
Interesting that the master invested commensurate with each servants ability.
It speaks to me of how God considers our ability when he invests in us.
I find it compelling that Jesus equates faithfulness to hard work.
The first two servants doubled what they were given because of their their work ethic.
In reality, the last one was really not a servant because he was lazy.
The response of the Master to his servants when he returns is so telling and instructive.
It reminds me that what we do in this life is important - to God and to us.
And it speaks of how we are accountable to him and to each other.
Thank you for the spiritual investments that you have made in me Lord.
Forgive me for the many times I have squandered those gifts.
Help me to be faithful with the things that you have entrusted me with.
... this devotion is part of the Red Letters series. Click here to read more.
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