Devotional thoughts for Monday

Monday 10. November 2014 

3. Last Sunday in the Church Year 

Jesus said: "For to everyone who has will more be given, and he will have an abundance. But from the one who has not, even what he has will be taken away." 

Jesus told a parable and compared the reign of heaven to a man going his servants trust of his property and talents. As the parable unfolds, most of the servants are diligent in using their lord's gifts and increase his wealth. Some squander the gifts and fail to even gain interest on their lord's wealth. The servants are then rewarded according to their use of the talents. 

Jesus has entrusted us with gifts, abilities and talents. He expects us to use them to further His reign and to be of benefit to our neighbors. This desire to use the gifts to their fullest is born from faith. Those who refuse to use the gifts given to them show they truly do not believe in Jesus. 

We also see in this parable the great mercy and generosity of Jesus. He gives out lavish gifts and gives even more at His return. Jesus is not, as some argue, a harsh God who willy nilly pours out His wrath on those who follow Him. Far from it! Jesus can become angry and punish, but that is only as a result of gross misconduct born from unbelief. Jesus redeemed us from all our sin and lavishly gave us the results of that redemption: righteousness and eternal salvation. He gives us diverse abilities and talents. We use them in faith and love to bring glory and honor to our gracious, loving Savior. 

Prayer: O Almighty and Ever-living God, You have given exceedingly great and precious promises to those who trust in You. Dispel from us the works of darkness and grant us to live in the light of Your Son, Jesus Christ, so that our faith may never be found wanting; through the same Jesus Christ, our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, One God, now and forever.  Amen. (A86, Treasury of Daily Prayer)