Jesus told about a wealthy man who goes away on a business trip.  He leaves his three servants to manage his money, called talents in those days. His one requirement is that they each invest wisely.  One servant gets five talents, another one gets two, and the third one gets one talent.  

When the master returns home he calls the guys together to find out how they did with the money.  The two servants with the five and two talents have invested wisely, doubling the master’s money.  Nice! The master congratulates both of them, “Well done good and faithful servant,” probably with a wink and a smile, although Jesus really doesn’t elaborate at that point. I'm not sure if the master used the word "intentional" to describe their financial stewardship, but I wouldn't be surprised because they certainly were.    

The servant with one talent, however, admits that he buried his and has nothing to show for it.  He offers some feeble excuse about the master being a tough guy and not wanting to disappoint him, which does not go over real well  with the master. I won't go into detail about what happened to that servant, but let’s just say it was not a happy day for him.   

I’ve often imagined myself as the fourth servant, the one with three talents.  I invest one talent wisely but bury the other two. When the master gets back he says, “Well done with that one talent, Rod.  But what the heck were you thinking when you buried the other two?”  I answer, “I didn’t think you were that serious,” or some other equally lame-o response.  And that’s where my parable ends….because I really don’t want to hear what the master has to say to me at that point.    

I have a ways to go to get to the good and faithful servant level. But I’m working on it.  

So, if you found yourself magically transported into this parable, which servant would you be?  What’s something you’ve done to make the most of the time, talent, or treasure your Master has left you with here on Earth?

Radical Stewardship, with Rod Robison, is heard nationwide on Intentional Living with Dr. Randy Carlson and Family Life Radio network.  To receive our free e-newsletter click here.  Each issue features encouragement and tips on living an intentional life in Christ.