The parable of the talents has always meant something to me. I can recall all the way back to my teen years and reading that passage in Luke 19 and being arrested by the concept. Jesus is the Master (some translations use the word “King”) He entrusts these people with different levels of gifts/talents. He comes back expecting a return on His investment. He’s so thrilled to see those who took risks, worked hard, and gained for Him a multiplied return on His initial investment. He’s so frustrated with the one who did nothing. Furthermore, He’s sad that the “wicked steward” accuses Him of theft, immorality, and harsh character.

I wonder how many Christians have misunderstood the Master, King Jesus. I wonder how many believers have yes, accepted Jesus as the only Son of God who took their place on the cross, yet somehow, deep down, they still see God as cruel, harsh, dogmatic… unkind even. Nothing could be further from the truth.