A supreme example that epitomizes the spirit of advancement is the Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25:14-30). The master entrusted his servants with his money, allocating 5,2 and 1 talent to each according to their ability. When the master returned after his long journey, he found the man with five talents worked, invested and doubled the original investment. The master was pleased. The servant given two talents did the same and the master was happy to see that result as well. The last servant was afraid and hid the money, burying it into the ground. The master was furious saying it would have been more profitable to put that money in the bank to earn interest. So what is the intention and moral stance held by the demanding master? He wants to push his servants forward to grow and take on more responsibility. He wants them to advance in growth and maturity. To the servants who multiplied his money, he said “Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a little; I will set you over much.” (Matthew 25:21). The point is that if you work and invest and create more with a little, God will provide you with more–more wealth, more responsibility over things and people. The action of the timid servant who buried the talent irked God because that person’s mentality expects others to provide and nurture them. This philosophical mindset resembles a “getting from others” thinking rather than “giving to others” mentality. God wants us to work, contribute, serve and multiply and when we cannot see the fruits of our labours within our sight, we are encouraged to keep moving forward, serving and contributing knowing that God will provide through faith.
Parable of the Talents
