Nothing Ventured

“Then the one who had received the five talents came forward, bringing five more talents, saying, ‘Master, you handed over to me five talents; see, I have made five more talents.’ His master said to him, ‘Well done, good and trustworthy slave; you have been trustworthy in a few things, I will put you in charge of many things; enter into the joy of your master.’” — From Matthew 25:20-21

The well-known parable of the talents ends on a bit of a downer. While the servants who were entrusted with two or five talents went out and doubled the investment, to the great appreciation of their master, the servant who was given one talent buried it in the ground until it was time to return it. Nothing ventured, nothing gained — except the ire of the master who can’t believe he couldn’t think of anything productive to do with such a windfall.

The word “talent” is over the top, a sum equal to 15 to 20 years of labor. I don’t think the parable is meant to inspire an investment strategy, but to help us regard an absurdly grand gift we’ve been given and make a daring, equally outrageous response with our life and labor.

Scripture is full of images of abundance, generosity and courage — from feeding miracles to expensive jars of perfume broken open, willingness to leave or lead one’s people in response to God’s call. Angel after angel bids, “Fear not! Do not be afraid.” Get yourself to the healing water when it is stirred up. Forgive your neighbor seventy times seven.

Next to all of that, this poor servant digging a hole to bury the talent out of fear something might go wrong makes a sorry picture indeed. The master has entrusted him with a significant gift, perhaps the chance of his lifetime, and he shoves it out of sight, thinking only of the disappointment that could lie ahead.

What can we take from the bolder servants? Those who are asked to steward two or five talents seem to see what’s possible. To a big gift, they wish to make a big response. It’s risky, yes, but there is possibility ahead for new life and unexpected growth, things they may not have yet imagined.

Where in your life are you encountering an unexpected goodness, a place of abundance? Do you have time to spend or share? Gifts or a passion that could be offered? Ask God to help you see the bounty in your life and offer it in gratitude and hope.

This little parable might be the nudge you’ve been waiting for to step out in faith. Do not be afraid.

Peace, Ann+