Nougat 16

We continue our reflection on the talents in today’s Holy Nougat

“To those who use well what they are given, even more will be given, and they will have an abundance. But from those who do nothing, even what little they have will be taken away.” ‭‭Matthew‬ ‭25‬:‭29‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Stewardship

A hard word to think about and perhaps harder to live. It’s about dedication to God, openness to God’s Spirit and doing God’s will even if it doesn’t feel like ours for our lives. Moreover it’s accountability for the gifts and skills God has blessed us with, confirming that the Good Work has begun in us, that God has blessed that work and by extension us – that’s why it’s good.

So firstly

What is the gift with which you have been blessed? Not the spiritual gift now, the ‘natural’ raw talent you have for whatever – sewing, swimming, listening, writing, building … you name it better than I? For each one of us, no matter our station in life, has a gift that is uniquely ours. When we know what it is, we have a seed (ie talent).

Secondly

We have to discern the Best way to invest our seed. We recognize that money can be banked, spent, divested, or squirreled; in like manner, we can do many things with our gifts. We can study to amplify it, work in the field, volunteer our gift, or despise it and do nothing with it. Given the current state of the global economy, investment may feel risky – both for cash or using our gifts. But even the market and the global economy is subject to God – so nothing is wrong with discerning what works for us according to God’s will.

Thirdly

We (re)dedicate the gift to God and invest according to the outcome of our research. Remember, our gifting is from God, and we invited God’s wisdom in the process of discernment. So if God has been part of the process, dedicating the gift to God ensures that whatever we do is aligned with God’s will.

Finally

Invest our seed – maximize the strength and potential of our gift; allowing God’s Spirit to guide us in best opportunities to strengthen and improve our gifts. Ensure that our gift glorifies God and seek opportunities to share the gift with our world (That’s how we bear fruit).

And throughout …

Be fervent in prayer, steadfastly attuned to God’s Spirit. For, “those who use well what they are given, even more will be given, and they will have an abundance. But from those who do nothing, even what little they have will be taken away.”

—

May all we seek be found in Christ