His Talents for His Kingdom

This Sunday we look at ‘The Parable of the Talents’. Jesus told this story to his followers to encourage them to be ready for his second coming, and to use all the gifts he has given us for his Kingdom’s growth until he returns.

In the parable, a man entrusts three of his servants with his wealth (a talent was a measure of gold), before going away for a while. To one servant he gave five talents. To the second, he gave two talents, and to a third, he gave one talent. Each servant received a measure in proportion to their abilities to manage it.
The parable goes on to say that the first two servants were good stewards of their master’s money, investing it in such a way that when the master returned, they handed back double what he had originally given them. They were commended and rewarded for their faithfulness.
In contrast, the third servant was fearful and negligent. Instead of using the treasure he was given for his master’s benefit, he simply dug a hole in the ground and hid it. His lazy, wicked attitude was reprimanded by his master, and his talent was taken away from him.

Likened to the parable, Jesus has given responsibilities to his followers, to carry on his work in the world until he returns. Jesus’ followers are to wisely, faithfully and responsibly use their God-given talents and resources for his benefit and glory. We must not be fearful or complacent about God’s kingdom work.
Jesus has made us ambassadors of his mission in the world, entrusting us with:
- Spreading the gospel (Matthew 28:16-20).
- Forgiving those who have wronged us (Matt 6:14-15).
- Loving others (John 13:34-35).
- Caring for his church (John 21:17).
- Being an example to the world (Matthew 14:13-16).
- Feeding the hungry and thirsty (Matt 25:25).
- Caring for the poor, the prisoner, and the sick (Matthew 25:36)
- Being hospitable to foreigners and outsiders (Matt 25:35).

We are called to use our time, money, bodies, and abilities with intentionality and faithfulness. We are accountable to God our creator, sustainer, redeemer, master/Lord. All that we have been entrusted with is to be used for his purposes and Glory, until Christ returns. At that time, we will give an account of how we spent the time and opportunities he has given to us. Do you think he will say “Well done good and faithful servant, come and join in your maters happiness” or “You wicked lazy servant”?

As we approach our Annual Parish Meeting this Sunday, it’s important to reflect on how we are managing the great gifts God has entrusted to us at Mount Eliza Anglican Church. We have been entrusted with a huge amount to steward well.

Let’s continue to reflect on how we can be even more intentional and faithful in the coming year, to grow God’s Kingdom. As we serve him intentionally and faithfully, may he bring continual increase, until he comes again.

God be with you.

Rev Tanya   
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