Loving The Master!

In Mathew 25, we have the record of Jesus' parable of the talents. Three servants were called in with each given in accordance with their individual "ability." (vs.15) Then the master went away for "a long time" (vs.19) while these servants were to put their master's property to use. The first two servants are said to have immediately (or at once) put the talents to use and each doubled the amount entrusted to them. (vss.16-17) It is possible that these two servants were EAGER TO PLEASE their master. Perhaps they even deeply loved the master under whom they served. However, with the third servant -- the one who simply went and buried what he had been given (vs.18) -- we are provided a clear glimpse of his view of the master where we read . . .

"(24) He also who had received the one talent came forward, saying, 'Master, I knew you to be a hard man, reaping where you did not sow, and gathering where you scattered no seed, (25) SO I WAS AFRAID, and I went and hid your talent in the ground. Here you have what is yours.'" ( Matthew 25:24-25 ESV)

This third servant knew his master's expectation. However, he had not even done the least he could have done; invested the money with the bankers to gain some interest. (vs.27) The servant's own words were used to condemn him. (vs.26) The master knew this servant's ability, but the servant had been lazy. (vs.26) Rather than being EAGER TO PLEASE his master, he allowed fear to paralyze him to the point of no activity. In his refusal to use it, he ended up losing it. (vss.28-29)

Certainly we should have a reverential fear for the Lord, our Master. However, have we come to know Him in a way that causes us to be a loving servant or a fearful one. Fear has to do with punishment and perfect love casts out fear! ( 1 John 4:18) Consider the expectation of the master in the parable. Just as he expected a return in relation to personal ability, so it is with our Lord. He does not expect any more than what He knows we can do. The real issue is are we at least living up and holding true to that? (consider the principle of Philippians 3:16) May our love for the Master be made evident in our EAGERNESS TO PLEASE Him by putting to use what has been entrusted to our care.

Have a great day USING OUR ABILITIES TO THE PLEASURE OF OUR MASTER!
Carl

See other teEn-MAIL on Expectations