Talents

For to everyone who has will more be given, and he will have an abundance. But from the one who has not, even what he has will be taken away. Matthew 25:29

It is easy for us, so many years on, to think about Shakespeare as the best playwright and poet of all times, and envy his abundance of talent and gift. It becomes a different story when one looks closer. Doing theatre was a challenging exercise in his time. The law was always trying to shut them down. There was never any money. They fled from location to location, sometimes evicted, sometimes burned out. They actors were vain and unreliable and the competition deadly. On top of that, there was the reality that every living script was being rewritten by others who spoke words better to their liking. The genius we applaud and honor in this day was just trying to get by, by the skin of his teeth. Just like most artists today. They have talent but the worlds and odds are against them. Many decide to give up and quit their art because it is too hard. But the good news is for those who use the gifts they have, whatever gifts those are, more will be given to them. The Creator is abundant and benevolent with the creative creatures.

What does this say to us today, the parable of the talents? In a time of recession and uncertainty, many are forced to give up on their dreams and survive. And yet God promises that there is an abundance of talents, riches, gifts for all of us if we are willing to put ourselves out there. It is risky business these days. The odds are completely against any positive creative force. And yet God reminds us today that if we use our gifts they will increase. As we are generous, we will receive generously. It's a matter of stepping out without a net - a task hard for ever single one of us.

Today, despite the challenges and restraints I face, I ask God to give me the energy and strength to step out, to use what I have for the good of others. And I ask God to be faithful and supply renewing energy and creativity for the days to come. Living by faith is risky business. And it is also full of delight and joy. May we trust God today and expect fullness and joy.