Reflect today on all that God has given you, what are your talents?

Jesus told his disciples this parable: “A man who was going on a journey called his servants and entrusted them with his possessions. To one he gave five talents; to another, two; to a third, one, to each according to his ability. Then he went away. "Matthew 25: 14-15

This passage begins the parable of the talents. Eventually, two of the servants worked hard using what they had received to produce more. One of the servants did nothing and received the sentence. There are many lessons we can draw from this parable. Let's take a look at a lesson on equality.

At first, you might think that each of the servants were given a different number of talents, a reference to the monetary system used at the time. In our day we tend to be fixated on what many call "equal rights". We become envious and angry if others seem to be treated better than us and there are many who become quite outspoken about any perceived lack of fairness.

How would you feel if you were the one who received only one talent in this story after seeing two others receive five and two talents? Would you feel cheated? Would you complain? Maybe.

Although the heart of the message in this parable is more about what you do with what you receive, it is interesting to note that God seems to give different portions to different people. To some he gives what appears to be an abundance of blessings and responsibilities. To others it seems to give very little of what is considered of value in this world.

God is not lacking in justice in any way. Therefore, this parable should help us accept the fact that life may not always "appear" right and equal. But this is a worldly perspective, not a divine one. From the mind of God, those who have been given very little in the worldview have as much potential to produce an abundance of good fruit as those who have been entrusted with a lot. Think, for example, of the difference between a billionaire and a beggar. Or on the difference between a bishop and a common layman. It is easy to compare ourselves with others, but the fact of the matter is that the only thing that matters is what we do with what we have received. If you are a poor beggar who has been faced with a very difficult situation in life,

Reflect today on all that God has given you. What are your "talents?" What have you been given to work with in life? This includes material blessings, circumstances, natural talents, and extraordinary graces. How well do you use what you have been given? Don't compare yourself to others. Instead, use what has been given to you for the glory of God and you will be rewarded for all eternity.

Lord, I give you all that I am and I thank you for all that you have given me. May I use all that I have been blessed with for Your glory and for the building of Your Kingdom. May I never compare myself to others, looking only at the fulfillment of Your holy will in my life. Jesus I believe in you.