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It is fun to write this series on Talent & the Kingdom in a period that I have two new books published, one in the USA and one in Holland. My Neigbor's House is the fifth book in a series about the Ten Commandments in the 21st century and deals with the last commandment: do not covet... It will be available later this year and I can only pray and hope this book will be a tremendous help in your spiritual journey.
In the previous posts we have seen that building or advancing God's Kingdom is not optional, it is an assignment, a calling we receive from the King. Let's go back to Matthew 25:14-15: Again, it will be like a man going on a journey, who called his servants and entrusted his property to them. To one he gave five talents of money, to another two talents, and to another one talent, each according to his ability. Then he went on his journey. The next thing we can learn from this introduction to the parable of the talents is that the man entrusted his property (talents, money) to his servants. He entrusts the property to them, which means he is still the owner! His servants are the stewards.
Jesus is still the owner of whatever He has entrusted us with. Whether that is money, talents or opportunities. However, we are called to do something with it, so as to reach other people, who can reach other people... yes, you got it. It doesn't matter which field your talent is in. Let's say you bake the best apple pies in town. Why not organize a coffee morning once a month or so for women in your street? Women you may never meet in any church. Ask your kids to make flyers and start inviting people. You do not have to preach or teach, this is about building relationships. The deeper conversations will come before you know it... especially after everyone has enjoyed your scrumptious apple pie!
This is only a very simple example of using (managing) the very thing God has given you. He is still the owner and entrusts us with basic assignments. It is His desire that we will go into the world with what we have and with what we can do. Let's not make this too difficult :) He trusts us to go for it.
4) God is still the owner of our talents, we are the stewards!
Love this, Marja! We are the stewards - I've been challenged lately to be a better steward of the things He's entrusted me with. Looking forward to your next book release! Hugs & God bless!
ReplyDeleteI am learning about stewardship Maria, all the time :)
DeleteThanks for stopping by and leaving your encouraging comments.
Another brilliant piece of text..... something to ponder on - but not for long! Take up the challenge -ACTION NOW!!
ReplyDeleteAction now :) Yes Anita, ideas are always brewing!
DeleteWe are! Trusting the Lord daily for His guidance in all things. Thanks so much for sharing this. Much to think about. Have a lovely weekend!
ReplyDeleteYeah, the thinking never stops :)
DeleteThanks, Marja, for an excellent post.
ReplyDeleteFrom my earliest years, I was taught that my talents were from God. It was my responsibility to develop and use them for His glory.
Wow, what a privilege to be taught such a valuable lesson Susan! Life changing for me, I only heard it a few years ago.
DeleteWonderful post, Marja! We are stewards and not owners. But we forget that. Thanks for this! And let me know what I can do to help with the new book! Blessings!
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