As we draw this reflection to a close, let us look at the third parable about the Talents. Jesus explained what watching and being ready is. It is about being faithful. Even though it is not a part of this parable, let us take a brief look at it.

Watching and being ready.

The man with one talent called the manager hard!!! “Wicked men lay the blame of their miscarriages upon others, oftentimes upon God himself.” (Poole)

The wicked servant was blinded by his pride and could not see his faults. He played the blame game. He felt he was dealt an unfair hand, so he did not work or even try. Jesus judged him as lazy and wicked.

Do we see laziness as sin? The servant was arrogant and fearless. He thought he was calling the master out on his bad management or attitude toward him. How often do we behave like this with God and sometimes even our bosses? We think we know better. God, you should have answered this prayer a long time ago or I would not be in this mess. It is your fault! My boss does not know how hard I work so I’m not going to work hard anymore. We are reminded that we do not work for mere men but as unto God.

The Wedding

What is at stake here is whether or not you get to enter the celebration. It is whether you enter in with intimacy, with honour and glory that everyone can see. This is not about losing your salvation. It will be heartbreaking to be left out of the intimate celebrations. All three parables point to a grave loss suffered by the foolish and wicked. And we are warned that it will be like this if we have the same attitude.

“Never knew you”- speaks of no intimacy developed. You were happy for the benefits but did not want to put in the work of knowing Him. The wise ones enjoyed intimacy, celebration, and joy.

The key thing is to be ready. Allow God to trim your wick- cleanse your heart and invest in intimacy so your light will shine. We need to prepare for his coming.

REFLECT AND ASK YOURSELF

Is there a wick that needs trimming?

Do you need to fill your flask with oil?

Have you lost sight of eternity?

Will you stay faithful till the end?

Repent and return to your First Love. Wherever you are in this story there is something for you to do.

Let us ask the Holy Spirit to lead us into all truth. Amen.

To do another related devotional based on John 15 by this author, you can go to
Know, Grow Show - John 15