Daily Devotional for December 22

 

December 22                                              Matthew 25:14-30

In today's parable Jesus makes two important points: first, God
has given people different talents and skills; and second,
regardless of what those talents and skills may be, they are
meant to be used.

Each person is talented in some way, Too often, though, people
believe their abilities are inferior to others, resulting in resent-
ment toward those whose gifts are more showy. It is temp-
ting to think, "With my insignificant abilities, I can do
nothing." Or the temptation is to envy more gifted people,
and as a consequence spend time and energy criticizing God
and others out of a feeling of inferiority. The fallacy in this
thinking is the belief that some gifts are more important than
others. The truth is that every person's unique gifts are
necessary in the body of Christ. God values us just as we are.

Whatever our gifts may be, they are meant to be used, rather
than buried in the garden out of fear. Refusing to utilize what
God has given ultimately means the loss of the gifts, just as
muscles atrophy if they are not used. If fear prevents a per-
son from using the talents God has given, perhaps it is because
that person views God as vengeful, exacting, and punishing,
a view of God that leads to immobilization.

The one-talent people who use their abilities as best they can
will be as appreciated, valued, and important to God's realm
as will be the five- or ten-talent folks. The gifts each person
brings are each important. Ask yourself today: What gifts has
God given me, and how am I using them?

                      Beloved Provider, thank you for
    the talents you have given me. Help me to use them
                         to your greater glory. Amen.

​

From The Road to Emmaus - An inclusive devotional Edited by Joseph W. Houle

Emmaus House of Prayer - Washington D.C.