Word for the day by Christian Education Forum
Responsible Resource Management
His master said to
him, well done good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a little;
I will set you over much, enter into the joy of your master (Matthew.25:23).
The eschatological
discourses or narratives about Christ's second coming are documented in Mathew
chapters 2 4 &25.The heavenly father has provided the resources for
everyone. But unfaithfulness in the management led to the scarcity of
resources. As a result of this the gap between the rich and the poor has been
widened. Some commentators have in mind that this parable does not justify a
gospel of economic prosperity.
Diversity in
giving:
God knows our
capabilities and He fully trusted us to venture the gifts. The master
entrusting us according to our ability. Something is given to everyone. Paul
says in Romans 12;6, we have gifts that differ according to the grace given to
us. The diversified business led to the harmonious movement and growth of the
community .Are we satisfied in our present assignment and the tasks? Jesus
himself shares the same in His High priestly prayer, “I glorified you on earth,
having accomplished the work that you gave me to do”. (john 17)
Taking risks in
life with faithfulness and fidelity:
William Barclay
says, there can be no religion without adventure, God can find no use for the
shut mind. The persons who rewarded more have the strength in themselves and
are ready to work. The master expects the stewards to be faithful in their
duties. Maintaining the statuesque is not the Christian ethic, but to labor
with Him in freedom. He will be returned and the timing is unknown. The given
talents we have to use for the well being of the poor and the needy. Least resources
matters in a kingdom perspective.
The person who
received one talent, was less zealous about the giver, the gift and questioned
the master’s generosity and love. There are challenges when we stand for new
commitments. Trusting the master gives us confidence. Talents are given to
serve God without selfish motives.
Proper work
will be rewarded:
There is a time
for all of us to be in His presence one day. Paul says each one may get a due
prize what he has done in the body whether good or evil. The skills will be
more sharpened and efficient when we work with it and he will enter into the
master’s joy. In Lord Jesus our labor is not in vain, so we have to be
steadfast and courageous. We are not the owners but servants to work for the
divine kingdom. Our master is loving , generous and kind. The given advantages
are not according to our merit, but His grace. The received are by the mercies
of God. Idleness is always against the divine will.
Prayer: Dear Lord, we await your second coming with hope.
Help us to be faithful to the gifts and the giver. Make us to use the talents
for common good. Keep away from idleness and sloth and more zealous about your
kingdom…Amen.
Thought for the
day: “If we rest, we rust”
Rev.
Sam T Panicker, Carmel MTC, Boston