Gospel of Matthew, chapter 25:21

Has a friend whom you haven’t seen for awhile at church, a snow- bird just returned to the parish for the winter, ever said to you: “My, this place certainly has changed?” Then, stopping a moment and looking around, have you suddenly become aware that wonderful things have been taking place all around you? Times like these can be revelatory moments. We need to be aware of what’s going on around us if we want to have a positive effect on what’s taking place. Lack of awareness leads to apathy and ineffectiveness. Appreciation of the gifts given to us by a generous God leads to concern for our Church and community.

Today’s gospel passage is about utilizing the talents that God has given us to the full. We are reminded that the Master is coming to call us to account for the way we use our gifts. When He comes, we don’t want to find ourselves surprised or hiding our failure at stewardship (like the person who buried ten talents in the ground) behind misunderstanding or lack of courage.

In the gospel story (Matthew 25/14-30), the gifts bestowed by God on his servants are out of proportion to what they deserve or would expect. All three recognize that the talents they have received are beyond magnanimity. All three recognize that they must not abuse these gifts or despoil them. But only two of the servants are vigilant enough to realize what they have really been given and who has given it to them. Only two understand that the Master’s gifts demand a stewardship that brings an increase, that they must risk using their gifts with as much generosity as did the Master in bestowing them upon them.

You have unique gifts to share. Remember that! Gifts of kindness, patience, and generosity. Just be aware that you can share them and are called to share them. Become watchful enough to know when and how to share them this advent season as we prepare for Christ at Christmas.

Fr. Hugh Duffy