In the parable of the talents, Jesus teaches us the importance of using our gifts for the benefit of God’s people. Pope Francis points out that this parable relates to the life of every individual. This parable reflects the beginning, the middle and the end of our lives.
Everything begins with great good. The master does not keep his wealth to himself but gives it to his servants: five talents to one, two to another, one to a third, “to each according to his ability” (Mt 25:15). According to estimates, one talent was equivalent to about 30 kilograms of silver – in today’s terms, it would equate to approximately US$ 25,000.00: it was of immense value. This is the beginning.
The beginning of everything for us, too, is not with our efforts but always begins with God’s grace, who entrusts different talents to each of us. The life we have received, the good qualities we possess, the indelible beauty God has given us by shaping us in his image… This is the huge amount of talent that God has left with us. It is sufficient for our lifetime.
However, often, we look only at the things we lack and complain about what we do not have. We are seldom content or satisfied with what we have. We are so obsessed with the phrase, “If only…”! If only I had that job… if only I had that home… if only I didn’t have this or that problem… Those illusory words – if only! – prevent us from seeing the good all around us.
In the Gospel, good servants are those who take risks. They are neither fearful nor over-cautious; they do not cling to what they possess. If goodness is not invested, it is lost. Jesus addressed those servants who took the risk, calling them “faithful” (vv. 21, 23). Unless you take risks, you will end up like the third servant: burying your abilities, your material and spiritual wealth, and everything you possess.
In God’s Kingdom, there is no room for lazy and scared people. The third servant had said that “he was afraid”. Fear is a game of the devil, showing our lack of faith and trust in God. One who trusts God will not be afraid of anything.
Father Josekutty Mathew CMF
Claretian Publications
bibleclaret.org
