Tending our Talents

In the parable of the loaned money, (found in Matthew 25:14-30), Jesus tells of a master who is preparing to go on a journey. Prior to his departure, he gives varying amounts of money to three of his servants. To one, he gave what would be worth about $5,000, to the next; $2,000, and the last; $1,000. He entrusted each of them with his money, expecting to see a return. When he arrived back from his journey, he checked to see how each of his servants had done.



The first, to whom he had given much, had earned an equal return, doubling the master’s money.“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 in your master’s happiness!” – (Matthew 25:21)



The second servant had done the same. He had been entrusted with $2,000, and had $4,000 to return to his master. “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!” – (Matthew 25:23)



Finally, the man who had been given $1,000 reported to the master. The foolish servant claimed to fear the master, so he had gone out and buried the money in the ground. Upon the master’s return, he dug it up, and took the money to present back to his master. His master did not give him the reception he had likely expected. The talents had been given for the servants to utilize, to invest – not to hide away. Taking his talent, the master had him removed and sent out, and gave his money to the one who had multiplied the most.



“God gives us time, gifts, and other resources according to our abilities, and He expects us to use them wisely until He returns. We are responsible to use well what God has given us. The issue is not how much we have, but how well we use what we have.” – (NIV footnotes for Matthew 25:15)

Each of us given,
talents meant to grow;
blessings from the Lord,
to extend, to sow.
May we use our time,
with wisdom and grace;
invest what’s given,
in our present space.
May He multiply,
whatever we bring;
so more hearts may know,
to honor the King.
Let our hearts soon hear,
the words from the Son;
“Come and share my joy,
your work is well done.”





Dear Heavenly Father, thank You that You bless us with time, gifts, resources and abilities that You have purposed for us to utilize to serve and honor You. Thank You that we are not expected to do this in our own strength, but rather in Yours. Thank You that as we earnestly seek You, You make our path plain. Forgive us for our fearfulness, or our anything else that keeps us from moving forward and utilizing what You have given for Your purposes. Teach us how to be bold on Your behalf, and may many come to know the hope that is found in You alone. Be glorified as we give You all of ourselves. Amen.

© Shannon Elizabeth Moreno and Revelations in Writing, May 2011 – present.

As you know, we consider blessed those who have persevered. – James 5:11