Matthew 25:25 - "So, I was afraid..." The servant did nothing with what he was entrusted. The Redeemer had given him just a little. The servant should have, at least, invested the one talent given to him by the One who owned him. Do I live afraid to take the risk with the investment of what God has given to me? The Parable of the Talents does not imply that by improving our talents, our abilities, our resources, we are then entitled to Divine Grace. We are all called to be servants of our Redeemer promoting ourselves---No!---promoting His Glory. There's a Grander Story here than just our story. We are constrained by the Love of Christ, controlled by His Love, to live no longer for ourselves. Am I willing to take a risk to invest in Eternity? These words come to mind again this week:
"Faith as I'm growing to understand it more, is about looking beyond my circumstances to a person. To have faith in better circumstances, even in God creating better circumstances, is not true faith. I want to be the kind of man who can watch every dream go down in flames and still yearn to be intimately involved in kingdom living, intimately involved with my Friend the King, and still be willing to take another risk just because it delights Him for me to do so. And my flesh shivers to think about it." Shattered Dreams
Jesus is all over Matthew, and He has invaded my heart. I feel the strong command to live the gospel, to share the talents, invest them in the service of the King.
ReplyDeleteIt's not a suggestion, it is a command.
It makes me tremble when I think of the responsibility. Life is rushing by, what have I done with the talents he has entrusted me?
As I read the passage, I realize the talents are not mine to hoard, I am only to incfrease them, by investing in others, telling them of Jesus, showing them the way, that their talents will also so into the Kingdom coffers until the investment grows exponentially.
Jan, life is rushing by and I ask myself the same thing. Oh, that I may be faound faithful!
ReplyDeleteHappy Birthday Annette! I didn't see you last night in passing. I pray you have a most wonderful day!
The Lord is doing some things that only He could orchestrate and I am thankful, grateful for this. I've tended to attempt to "fix" things myself with good intentions but it is so much better when the Lord does it. May I continue to wait on Him and his timing as He brings things to completion.
Thanks again to all of you with your encouragement and challenging thoughts that bring me to the Father!
I was just reading a comment over at Joanne's blog where Toben asked everyone to pray BIG. One of the comments said, "God whispers and mountains move."
ReplyDeleteThis King Bridegroom returns soon and asks us to be found ready. I ask myself too, Jan and Michele, particularly on a day like my birthday, what has God done through me to advance His Kingdom? No Moses or John the Baptist here...more like Balaam's donkey--used in spite of myself. So I rededicate my life to His Cause, to love better, to offer myself to be used for Kingdom purposes, and pray for those sweet words, "Well done, good and faithful servant!"
Jan, your heart is so alive and way down here in Austin, I'm thinking of you this day and asking Him to grant the longings of your heart. So good!
ReplyDeleteSo glad to hear your words Michele and your longings are always for Him!
ReplyDeleteAnnette, Happy Birthday! You so promote His Glory. Psalm 50:2 Perfect in Beauty is the God Who pours out of you. You've brought such beauty to all of our lives. And for me, you've given me hope, courage, and kindness and brought me to Him so many times, I cannot count. You're a dear friend that sticks closer than a brother. Your faith flames mine. I just think the world of you. My Love to You on your birthday! Love, Bev
ReplyDeleteIt's so comforting to have a place to come, knowing none of you Pearls have hidden your talents. Each one of you inspire me so much! You are each laying down your lives for your friends by sharing your hearts with so many. You are doing well in this race! I'm honored to have each of you in my life!
ReplyDeleteHappy Birthday, Annette!!!
I love you so... :)
It's freezing up here in Michigan, but the sun is out so it's a beautiful day!
Much love to you all,
A.
Hey A.
ReplyDeleteI'm whispering (I'm subbing in the Library today).
It's our privilege to walk beside you, oh encourager!
6 "But at midnight there was a cry, 'Here is the bridegroom! Come out to meet him.' "
ReplyDeletePraying that we would all be ready, lamps trimmed, oil in abundance...when the Father sends His Son, the Faithful Bridegroom.
Thanks, everyone. It was a good day despite the cold. I receive your prayers for blessing and favor! So much love, Annette
ReplyDeleteHappy Birthday, Annette!
ReplyDeleteYou are a blessing to me.
Christ looks so beautiful on you.