Daily Reflections ...

1 talent was worth a considerable sum, more than 16 years’ wages for a simple labourer. In Jesus’ parable, the one who was given ‘only’ one talent was in fact entrusted with quite a lot. This explains the displeasure of the ‘master’ upon his return. He rightly expected a return on his valuable investment. While it’s true that some are given more, the master was not expecting the servant with the one talent to make the same profit as the one with five. Rather, he was expecting a return which was proportionate.

We each have our gifts to offer, and they are worth more than we think. Furthermore, we are often mistaken in what we believe to be the greater gifts. We glamourise some and neglect others. Which is greater: to be a public figure running the show or the hospitality volunteer—quietly getting on with the job? Upon which do we put more value, the person preaching or the one who lives out the message with great love and dedication, even if they are less visible?

St Paul confirms it for us: ‘Strive for the greater gifts,’ he instructs, but ‘if I do not have love, I gain nothing.’ (1 Cor 12:31 & 13:3). We should not fear that we will be left without something valuable to offer back to God. Indeed, if we give our all, then nothing could be lacking in our offering. Offer back to God what He has given, but also, let us not fail to reap a return of love; thereby making our lives a pleasing offering to the Father.

by Fr Michael Grace