Matthew 25:21 His master replied, “Well done, good and
faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in
charge of many things. Come and share your master's
happiness!”
Churches are in the talent business.
I don’t mean that we’re focused on show business or performance arts (although
at Erin we do this very well through our Creative Arts ministries); I’m talking
about the biblical meaning of talents, which in this parable of Christ refers
to talents of gold. Jesus told this story (Matthew 25:14-30) to convey what’s expected
of His followers, as well as what God expects of everyone who is given the gift
of life.
We all have talents and throughout life we are given many
opportunities to use or display them. Some people are extroverts and others are
introverts, but both types of people have talents that are essential to the
witness of the Church in the world. Usually, the extroverts are the team
leaders, teachers, and elders in a congregation and their roles are crucial to
the forward development of the church. The introverts are frequently the
compassionate comforters, praying people, and fellowship feeders whose roles
are equally crucial in the pastoral continuity of any congregation. Both have
different sets of talents, but when they are combined successfully, churches
become effective vehicles of Christ’s message and God’s love.
As you read this today, ask God to make you aware of the
particular talents that He has given you, and then ask Him to give you
opportunities to use those talents to help the church, as well as the community
that you live in. You are a child of God’s love and grace; use this blessing to
help others receive and experience it, too.
Questions for personal reflection
What am I
good at? How can I use that skill to benefit others, and bless the work of God?
Prayer: Lord
Jesus, thank You for the gifts of faith, hope, and love that You give to all of
Your followers. Help us to use those blessings as ways and means of helping our
loved ones and other people in their times of need and support. Grant us
opportunities to reach out to those who feel let down, disappointed, or
forsaken. In Your Holy Name, we humbly pray. Amen.
John Stuart is the pastor
of Erin Presbyterian Church in Knoxville, Tennessee. If you would like to ask
questions or make comments about today’s message, please feel free to send him
an email to Traqair@aol.com.
Today’s image is one of
John’s latest snowman drawings. It’s called “Winter Cheer.” If you would like
to view a larger version, please visit the following link: Snowman.
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