Reflection

Whilst yesterday we witnessed the great praise and reward to the obedient

servants who faithfully put to work what had been entrusted to them, today

we witness the judgment that falls on the servant who failed to put to work

what had been entrusted to him. In fact, we note that the servant - knowing

full well that they would be judged - did not even put the money on

deposit, but hid it away where it could not earn anything. As we read this,

we’re meant to understand that this is not merely an action of someone who

is risk-averse, but someone who is directly disobeying their master. The

servant was only concerned for himself, neither trusting nor sharing in his

master’s intentions.

How we - entrusted with great gifts from God - are to act differently.

We’re to be like the first two servants, who recognising their gifts were

not their own, pursued the intentions of the owner and not necessarily

themselves. That’s why, when discerning how best to use our gifts, time,

and resources - in recognition that they all ultimately come from God and

are God’s - is to seek out his will by considering how he would like us to

put these gifts to work. How would God best have me use the time entrusted

to me? What is the best use of the resources I have for God’s Kingdom

purposes? How can I grow and focus my gifts so that there might be great

Gospel fruit for God’s Kingdom and not my own empire or achievement?

God is not like the king in the parable who is harsh and unfair, but our

God is the just judge who will call us all to account. AL

Questions

How do you think God could be leading you to grow or focus your gifts more

intently for his Kingdom purposes?

Are there any aspects of your gifts, time, or resources that you resist

using for God’s purposes?

Prayer

Heavenly Father, please help us in the power of your Spirit to be obedient

in the way that we use our gifts, time, and resources for your glory.

Please convict us of any ways in which we hold our gifts close, resisting

to use them generously for your purposes. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.