Blessed stewardship

Matthew 25 : 14 - 30

Is it easier for one who has more to take on the challenge of good stewardship? I note that the servant who was given five talents went away immediately and made good use of it. The one who had two talents may have been slightly slower - though he achieved results as well. The one with one talent seems to have been too unmotivated to do much, except bury it in the ground. He claims fear as the reason for inaction.

In life, we are given gifts and talents 'unequally'. Not because God loves some more and some less, but just because he has different purposes for each and every person. But he does have a purpose for each person, however much or however little that person is entrusted with.

Our lives gain meaning and purpose when we are responsive to God's call. It is not just a matter of 'we have to do it in obedience', for this can become a joyless faith. It is in claiming the unique gifts and talents we have been entrusted with, and seeking to use them for God's glory that gives ultimate meaning to life. And I'm sure it brings much delight and joy to God as well - those of us who have children know how much we desire to see them live out their full potential.

I don't know why the 'one talent' servant was so fearful of action. However, we know that we too are at times hesitant to use our gifts and talents. Sometimes it is plain sloth or indifference and at other times it is busyness and distraction by worldly cares; or perhaps not knowing how to. I have found that the God who gives the talents will also give us the sufficient means (of grace and wisdom) to use them in a fitting way - if only we ask him to guide us. We will ultimately lose what we do not nurture and value, while God promises abundance for those who are reliable stewards. These need not fear the consequences of finding themselves strangers to the kingdom.