“[Jesus told] a parable… because they supposed that the kingdom of God was to appear immediately. He said, ‘A nobleman went into a far country to receive for himself a kingdom and then return. Calling ten of his servants, he gave them ten minas, and said to them, “Engage in business until I come…”
“‘When he returned, having received the kingdom, he ordered these servants to whom he had given the money to be called to him, that he might know what they had gained by doing business. The first came before him, saying, “Lord, your mina has made ten minas more.” And he said to him, “Well done, good servant! Because you have been faithful in a very little, you shall have authority over ten cities.” The second came, saying, “Lord, your mina has made five minas.” And he said to him, “And you are to be over five cities.” Then another came, saying, “Lord, here is your mina, which I kept laid away in a handkerchief; for I was afraid of you, because you are a severe man…” He said to him, “I will condemn you with your own words, you wicked servant! You knew that I was a severe man..? Why then did you not put my money in the bank, and at my coming I might have collected it with interest?”
“‘And he said to those who stood by, “Take the mina from him, and give it to the one who has the ten minas… I tell you that to everyone who has, more will be given, but from the one who has not, even what he has will be taken away.”‘” Luke 19:11-13,15-24,26
Jesus’s parables intentionally addressed a concern or mindset of His disciples in order to correct their thinking. Eager for Him to take over their present kingdom, they misconstrued how they were to prepare in present life for His reign. He was soon to wear a crown of thorns, not one of earthly authority, and He wanted to instill in them a sense of lasting stewardship of all He had put in their care. To be wasteful of their trust now would make for wistfulness in the future.
Often we get engaged in projects or work that we suppose will take a certain path and end in a certain way or time. Our assumptions, however reasoned, are always trumped by the providence of God, who alone knows beginnings and ends. More than our personal determinations, He desires that we seek His means and methods along the way, and that we faithfully handle all He’s entrusted us for the now, no matter the future. Whether we like our circumstances or not, we will be held to account for our stewardship in them. (2 Corinthians 5:10)
Where are we being guided in daily efforts by misplaced or selfish agendas? Would we seek first God’s direction and ends? What or whom has He entrusted to us to manage for this season, and how well are we able to give account? Have we let sloth, procrastination, distaste for our authorities or assignments, or distorted perceptions of God’s holy standards affect our efforts? What attitudes and responsibilities need adjustment toward faithfulness and excellence? Engaging in God’s business His way results in greater responsibility, great reward, and glory to Him.
Lord, help me handle every resource and responsibility with care, zeal, and honor, as from and unto You.
As the rain and snow 