More Will be Given

 

Gospel

Luke 19:11-28

11 While people were listening to Jesus speak, he proceeded to tell a parable because he was near Jerusalem and they thought that the Kingdom of God would appear there immediately. 12 So he said, “A nobleman went off to a distant country to obtain the kingship for himself and then to return. 13 He called ten of his servants and gave them ten gold coins and told them, ‘Engage in trade with these until I return.’ 14 His fellow citizens, however, despised him and sent a delegation after him to announce, ‘We do not want this man to be our king.’ 15 But when he returned after obtaining the kingship, he had the servants called, to whom he had given the money, to learn what they had gained by trading. 16 The first came forward and said, ‘Sir, your gold coin has earned ten additional ones.’ 17 He replied, ‘Well done, good servant! You have been faithful in this very small matter; take charge of ten cities.’ 18 Then the second came and reported, ‘Your gold coin, sir, has earned five more.’ 19 And to this servant too he said, ‘You, take charge of five cities.’ 20 Then the other servant came and said, ‘Sir, here is your gold coin; I kept it stored away in a handkerchief, 21 for I was afraid of you, because you are a demanding man; you take up what you did not lay down and you harvest what you did not plant.’ 22 He said to him, ‘With your own words I shall condemn you, you wicked servant. You knew I was a demanding man, taking up what I did not lay down and harvesting what I did not plant; 23 why did you not put my money in a bank? Then on my return I would have collected it with interest.’ 24 And to those standing by he said, ‘Take the gold coin from him and give it to the servant who has ten.’ 25 But they said to him, ‘Sir, he has ten gold coins.’ 26 He replied, ‘I tell you, to everyone who has, more will be given, but from the one who has not, even what he has will be taken away. 27 Now as for those enemies of mine who did not want me as their king, bring them here and slay them before me.’” 28 After he had said this, he proceeded on his journey up to Jerusalem.

Historical Background

The Parable of the Minas was told by Jesus as he traveled toward Jerusalem, shortly before his triumphal entry. 

The specific historical context for his audience was the recent experience of Archelaus, a son of Herod the Great, who had traveled to Rome to have his kingship confirmed by the Roman Emperor. A delegation of his subjects, who hated him, followed him to Rome to argue against his rule. Upon his return with the kingship, Archelaus took vengeance on his enemies. 

Jesus's audience would have been familiar with this event, and the parable's narrative of a nobleman going away to receive a kingdom and returning to execute his enemies would have resonated strongly with this real-life scenario.

Theological Context

The primary theological purpose of the parable was to correct the misconception among Jesus's followers that the Kingdom of God would appear immediately upon his arrival in Jerusalem. Jesus used the parable to indicate that there would be a period of time (represented by the nobleman's journey to a "distant country" and return) between his departure (ascension to heaven) and his return (the Second Coming) to establish his full, physical kingdom. 

During this intervening time, his "servants" (believers/disciples) are expected to be faithful stewards of the "minas" (representing the gifts and opportunities for service, such as the Gospel message itself) entrusted to them, actively "doing business" and being productive for the kingdom. 

The parable also serves as a warning that there will be a day of reckoning and judgment for how individuals have used their entrusted gifts. Faithfulness will be rewarded with greater responsibility and authority in the coming kingdom. Those who reject Jesus's kingship (the citizens who "hated him") and those who are unfaithful or unproductive with their gifts will face severe consequences.

Learning Lessons

This statement is often interpreted as a lesson about responsibility, stewardship, and the use of resources. Those who use their resources wisely and productively will receive even more. Conversely, those who neglect or misuse their resources will lose what they have. The parable encourages thoughtful consideration of how we manage our abilities, possessions, and opportunities. It serves as a reminder to be good stewards of what we have, whether it’s material wealth, talents, or time. 

Beyond the literal context, the parable has spiritual implications. It highlights the importance of faithfulness and spiritual growth. The one who seeks to grow spiritually and uses their gifts for God’s purposes will experience spiritual abundance. Understanding the context in which Jesus spoke this parable is crucial. It appears in different forms in the Gospels (Matthew 25:29, Mark 4:25, Luke 8:18). Considering the audience, Jesus may have addressed issues specific to their time and culture.

Just as Jesus adapted the parables to his audiences, we can adapt their meaning and significance to our world today. The challenge lies in applying the principles of stewardship, faithfulness, and justice in our contemporary context. In summary, the parable invites reflection on how we handle what we’ve been given—whether it’s wealth, abilities, or opportunities—and how our choices impact our lives and the lives of others. 

Reflection for the Day

Today's passage challenges us to examine how we are using the gifts, talents, and resources God has entrusted to us. Jesus told this parable to correct the idea that the Kingdom of God would appear immediately, emphasizing a period of waiting and responsible action. This "waiting time" is not for passive idleness but for active, faithful stewardship.

Each of us has received a "mina"—not necessarily a large sum of money, but life itself, the Gospel message, our unique abilities, and opportunities to serve God and others. The Master's expectation is that we "put this money to work" (Luke 19:13), making a difference for the growth of the kingdom. This often involves taking risks for the sake of the Gospel and acting with love as the main motive, rather than playing it safe out of fear or self-preservation.

The servant who buried the coin was condemned not for losing it, but for doing nothing with it. His fear led to unfaithfulness. We are called to be productive and fruitful, using what we have been given to make the world a better, more loving place.

As you go through your day, consider, what are the "minas" that God has entrusted to me? Am I using these gifts with love and hope for God's kingdom, or am I keeping them "safely wrapped in a handkerchief" out of fear or self-interest?

We will all one day give an account of our stewardship. Let us strive to hear the words, "Well done, good servant!"

The Wait and the Weight

A nobleman, to a far land did he go,

To claim a crown, his sovereign right to show.

To ten in trust, a single coin was shared,

"Engage in trade until I have returned," he cared.

The subjects chafed, their hatred clear and strong,

"We want him not, his rule to us is wrong".

But crowned he was, and in his power's height,

He summoned those who served him in the night.

The first came forth, with ten coins now in hand,

"Well done, good servant, rule in all the land".

The next with five, rewarded all the same,

A good and faithful servant of great name.

Then one drew near, with pale and fearful face,

The coin wrapped safe, a failure and disgrace.

"I knew you, Lord, a man both harsh and stern,

So hid your coin, no profit did I learn."

"From your own mouth!" the King in anger cried,

"You wicked servant, where did wisdom hide?

At least the bank could interest acquire!"

And all he had was taken in his ire.

So wait we must, but not in idleness,

Our gifts and time, to use them and to bless.

For He who went, the King, will come again,

And ask account of stewardship till then.

Lord Jesus,

In the quiet chambers of my soul, I ponder the weight of justice. Its scales, precise and unyielding, measure deeds against truth. And there, in the balance, I seek your face—the embodiment of all that is just and merciful. Your countenance, veiled in mystery, awaits my gaze. Will I find favor or retribution? The dawn approaches, and with it, the promise of revelation. As slumber releases its grip, I stir, eager to behold the ineffable.

Contentment whispers through the morning mist. It is not in riches or accolades, but in the presence of the Divine. For there, in the sacred stillness, I find solace. The burdens of existence fade, replaced by a quiet knowing—a communion beyond words. So let me wake, eyes lifted toward eternity and behold your face. Let justice and mercy intertwine, and may my soul find rest in your presence.

Amen

Pericope:

V: The Journey to Jerusalem: Luke's Travel Narrative

THE PARABLE OF THE TEN GOLD COINS

Luke 19:11-27

Gospel Acclamation

I chose you from the world, to go and bear fruit that will last, says the Lord.

Reflection Source:

Conversation with Copilot, Google AI

Published:

November 22, 2023

Engage In Trade

He called ten of his servants 

and gave them ten gold coins and told them, 

‘Engage in trade with these until I return.’ 

(Luke 19:13)

Today is the day to embark on a journey of exchange and commerce. Let the exchange begin, and may our transactions echo across the celestial tapestry. 

In the bustling market square, where whispers of opportunity weave through the air, we shall barter and negotiate. What treasures do you bring forth? Is it knowledge, goods, or perhaps dreams wrapped in silken ribbons?

Speak your terms, and I shall weigh them against the cosmic ledger. For in this dance of trade, the currency transcends mere coins—it is woven from intention, trust, and the echoes of ancient bazaars.

So, fellow traveler, what do you offer? A secret recipe for stardust soup? A map to hidden constellations? Or perhaps a snippet of forgotten verse that hums with forgotten magic?

Lord Jesus, You alone can work for good to those who love You. Thank You so much for providing all the resources needed for us to live gloriously each day. 

You are the one true owner of the trade you made me engage in. You have given me the resources expecting that it will grow and profit even more. I do confess that there are times when I became reckless in dealing with the works at hand. Please forgive me for making the wrong decision of trusting others instead of using your own resources to guarantee the payment of our regular business obligations. Capture my mind and heart to work in accordance with Your wisdom. May You continue to work in us that will greatly increase our productivity and profitability. 

You know exactly what I want when it comes to the work that I love and enjoy doing. May your hand work in giving me a trading business that involves buying and selling of used cars. Make me own a property that is near my home and office that we can use for this endeavor, the needed resources and capital such as equipment and tools and give me the best laborers in town. May this come to me as an additional new line of work by the coming year. 

Truly, You will never allow me to fail but instead prosper in everything I do. Please accept my humble offering of praise and thanksgiving for all the good things you continue to do in me. May your heart and wisdom be upon me always in managing your resources. May your hand continue to work in me so that in all things done, the rewards and profits will be great. 

With much love and gratitude I give you back all the glory and praise in Jesus Name. Amen.

Pericope:

V: The Journey to Jerusalem: Luke's Travel Narrative

THE PARABLE OF THE TEN GOLD COINS

Luke 19:11-27

Reflection Source:

Microsoft Copilot

Published:

November 22, 2023, 8:10 AM

Prudent Stewardship

Gospel

Luke 16:1-8

1 Jesus said to his disciples, “A rich man had a steward who was reported to him for squandering his property. 2 He summoned him and said, ‘What is this I hear about you? Prepare a full account of your stewardship, because you can no longer be my steward.’ 3 The steward said to himself, ‘What shall I do, now that my master is taking the position of steward away from me? I am not strong enough to dig and I am ashamed to beg. 4 I know what I shall do so that, when I am removed from the stewardship, they may welcome me into their homes.’ 5 He called in his master’s debtors one by one. To the first he said, ‘How much do you owe my master?’ 6 He replied, ‘One hundred measures of olive oil.’ He said to him, ‘Here is your promissory note. Sit down and quickly write one for fifty.’ 7 Then to another he said, ‘And you, how much do you owe?’ He replied, ‘One hundred measures of wheat.’ He said to him, ‘Here is your promissory note; write one for eighty.’ 8 And the master commended that dishonest steward for acting prudently. “For the children of this world are more prudent in dealing with their own generation than the children of light." 

Historical Background

The parable unfolds during the final months of Jesus’ public ministry (circa AD 30), likely in Perea, east of the Jordan River.

Wealthy landowners often lived far from their estates and hired stewards (οἰκονόμος) to manage debts, rents, and contracts. Archaeological finds (e.g., Babatha archive) confirm such debt arrangements, including inflated commodity rents that masked interest—technically forbidden by Mosaic Law.

A steward has a legal authority to adjust contracts and collect payments. Mismanagement triggered audits and dismissal, which often led to social disgrace and destitution. The steward’s clever renegotiation of debts secured future hospitality from grateful debtors, a survival tactic rooted in communal reciprocity.

Theological Context

Luke places this parable within a sequence on repentance, stewardship, and wealth. It follows the prodigal son, linking both characters through the Greek word diaskorpizó (“wasted”).

The steward is called “unjust” yet commended for his shrewdness—not his ethics, but his foresight. Jesus contrasts him with “the children of light,” urging believers to be wise in using temporal resources for eternal gain.

The parable doesn’t endorse dishonesty but highlights strategic generosity—using worldly wealth to build relationships that reflect Kingdom values.

Learning Lessons

This verse emphasizes the importance of being accountable for our actions. Just as the steward had to give an account of his management, we too are responsible for how we manage our resources, time, and responsibilities. It highlights the concept of stewardship, reminding us that we are caretakers of the resources and opportunities given to us. We must use them wisely and faithfully.

The steward's dismissal serves as a warning about the consequences of mismanagement. It teaches us that neglecting our duties and responsibilities can lead to serious repercussions.

The verse encourages self-reflection and evaluation of our actions. It prompts us to regularly assess how we are living our lives and whether we are fulfilling our responsibilities effectively. These lessons inspire us to be diligent, responsible, and reflective in our daily lives. 

Reflection for the Day

Today’s passage invites a deep examination of our stewardship. Am I using my resources—time, money, influence—with eternal perspective? Do I act with foresight, preparing for the future not just materially but spiritually? Can I be generous in ways that build lasting relationships and reflect God’s mercy?

The steward’s shrewdness challenges us to be wise as serpents and innocent as doves (Matthew 10:16). In a world driven by self-preservation, Jesus calls us to invest in others, to redeem what we have, and to live with Kingdom urgency.

In every choice, in every deed, 

Act with wisdom, plant the seed. 

Consider well the path you take, 

For every step, a future make.

With careful thought and steady hand, 

Build your life, a house that stands. 

In prudence, find the strength to see, 

The way to live, the way to be.

For in the planning, wisdom lies, 

A guiding light, a clear sunrise. 

So act with care, and do not haste, 

In every moment, make it chaste.

Let prudence be your guiding star, 

In every task, both near and far. 

For in each prudent act, you'll find, 

A life well-lived, a peace of mind.

Dear Lord Jesus,

We come before You with humble hearts, seeking Your wisdom and guidance. Teach us to act prudently in all our decisions and actions. Help us to plan carefully and to consider the consequences of our choices.

Grant us the discernment to recognize the right path and the courage to follow it, even when it is difficult. May we be good stewards of the resources and opportunities You have given us, using them wisely and faithfully.

Lord, remind us to seek Your counsel in every situation and to trust in Your perfect plan. Strengthen our resolve to live with integrity and purpose, always striving to honor You in all that we do.

In Your holy name, we pray.

Amen.

Pericope:

V: The Journey to Jerusalem: Luke's Travel Narrative

THE PARABLE OF THE DISHONEST STEWARD

Luke 16:1-8

Gospel Acclamation

Whoever keeps the word of Christ, the love of God is truly perfected in him. 

Reflection Source:

Conversation with Copilot

Published:

November 08, 2024, 7:51 AM

Faithful and Prudent Stewardship

Gospel

Luke 12:39-48

39 Jesus said to his disciples: “Be sure of this: if the master of the house had known the hour when the thief was coming, he would not have let his house be broken into. 40 You also must be prepared, for at an hour you do not expect, the Son of Man will come.” 41 Then Peter said, “Lord, is this parable meant for us or for everyone?” 42 And the Lord replied, “Who, then, is the faithful and prudent steward whom the master will put in charge of his servants to distribute the food allowance at the proper time? 43 Blessed is that servant whom his master on arrival finds doing so. 44 Truly, I say to you, he will put him in charge of all his property. 45 But if that servant says to himself, ‘My master is delayed in coming,’ and begins to beat the menservants and the maidservants, to eat and drink and get drunk, 46 then that servant’s master will come on an unexpected day and at an unknown hour and will punish him severely and assign him a place with the unfaithful. 47 That servant who knew his master’s will but did not make preparations nor act in accord with his will shall be beaten severely; 48 and the servant who was ignorant of his master’s will but acted in a way deserving of a severe beating shall be beaten only lightly. Much will be required of the person entrusted with much, and still more will be demanded of the person entrusted with more.”

Historical Background

Jesus is teaching a large crowd, including His disciples, likely in the countryside of Galilee. This chapter follows a series of teachings on hypocrisy, fear, greed, and trust in God.

The parable uses familiar household roles—masters, stewards, and servants—which would resonate with a first-century audience accustomed to hierarchical domestic structures.

Many Jews at the time anticipated a messianic figure who would come suddenly and decisively. Jesus taps into this expectation but reframes it with a call to moral readiness rather than political revolution.

Theological Context

Jesus likens His return to a thief in the night—not to instill fear, but to emphasize the unpredictability of divine timing. The call is to be spiritually alert.

Jesus introduces a sobering truth regarding the degree of accountability. Those who know God’s will and ignore it face greater judgment than those who act wrongly out of ignorance. This reflects divine justice tempered by mercy. The “faithful and wise manager” represents those entrusted with leadership or responsibility in God’s household. This includes spiritual leaders, but also anyone given influence or resources.

The passage is eschatological—it points to the final judgment and the return of Christ. But it’s also deeply practical, urging daily faithfulness.

Learning Lessons:

Jesus speaks about the importance of being a faithful and wise steward. He emphasizes the importance of being faithful in the tasks and responsibilities entrusted to us. Whether in our personal lives, work, or spiritual duties, being reliable and diligent is highly valued. It’s not just about being faithful but also wise. This means making prudent decisions, managing resources well, and acting with discernment in various situations.

He also reminds us that we are accountable for our actions. Just as the servant is accountable to the master, we are accountable to God for how we manage what He has given us. There is a promise of reward for those who are found faithful and wise. This encourages us to persevere and remain steadfast in our duties, knowing that our efforts are recognized and valued.

Jesus uses this parable to teach about being ready for His return. It’s a call to live our lives in a way that is pleasing to God, always prepared for the day we will give an account of our stewardship. Reflecting on these lessons can inspire us to live with greater integrity, wisdom, and readiness, aligning our actions with our faith and values. 

Reflection for the Day

“To whom much is given, much will be required.” (Luke 12:48) Today’s Gospel invites a personal inventory: Am I living with spiritual alertness, or have I grown complacent?, In what ways have I been entrusted with “much”—whether knowledge, influence, or grace?, Do I steward these gifts faithfully, or do I delay obedience, assuming I have time?

This passage isn’t just about the end times—it’s about how we live now. The faithful servant isn’t praised for guessing the master’s return, but for consistently doing his duty. That’s the heart of discipleship: steady, joyful obedience even when no one is watching.

Let this be a day of recommitment—to live as a steward who feeds others with truth, serves with integrity, and stays ready not out of fear, but out of love.

In the quiet moments of dawn’s first light,

We seek to walk in paths so bright.

With hearts aligned to God’s own will,

We strive to serve, our roles fulfill.

Each gift and talent, wisely used,

In service to others, never refused.

With humble hearts and hands so kind,

We reflect God’s love, His peace we find.

In every task, both great and small,

We answer to the Master’s call.

With faith and prudence, we proceed,

To sow the seeds of love and need.

For stewardship is more than care,

It’s living life with love to share.

In every act, in every deed,

We honor God, His word we heed.

So let us be both faithful, wise,

With grateful hearts and open eyes.

For in our stewardship, we see,

A glimpse of heaven’s eternity.

Lord Jesus, 

You are our Savior and King. We come before You with humble hearts, seeking Your guidance and wisdom in the stewardship of all You have entrusted to us. 

Grant us the grace to be faithful in every task and duty we undertake. Help us to use our talents and resources for Your glory and the good of others. Teach us to be prudent and wise in managing the gifts You have given. May we always act with integrity and love reflecting Your light in all we do.

In moments of doubt and challenge, strengthen our resolve to follow Your way. Let our actions be a testament to Your love and our lives a reflection of Your grace. We ask this in Your holy name, 

Amen.

Pericope:

V: The Journey to Jerusalem: Luke's Travel Narrative

VIGILANT AND FAITHFUL SERVANTS

Luke 12:35-48

Gospel Acclamation: 

Stay awake! For you do not know when the Son of Man will come.

Reflection Source:

Conversation with Copilot

Published:

October 23, 2024, 6:53 AM

Stewards of God's Grace

 

Gospel

Matthew 25:14-30

14 Jesus told his disciples this parable: “A man going on a journey called in his servants and entrusted his possessions to them. 15 To one he gave five talents; to another, two; to a third, one—to each according to his ability. Then he went away. Immediately 16 the one who received five talents went and traded with them, and made another five. 17 Likewise, the one who received two made another two. 18 But the man who received one went off and dug a hole in the ground and buried his master’s money. 19 After a long time the master of those servants came back and settled accounts with them. 20 The one who had received five talents came forward bringing the additional five. He said, ‘Master, you gave me five talents. See, I have made five more.’ 21 His master said to him, ‘Well done, my good and faithful servant. Since you were faithful in small matters, I will give you great responsibilities. Come, share your master’s joy.’ 22 Then the one who had received two talents also came forward and said, ‘Master, you gave me two talents. See, I have made two more.’ 23 His master said to him, ‘Well done, my good and faithful servant. Since you were faithful in small matters, I will give you great responsibilities. Come, share your master’s joy.’ 24 Then the one who had received the one talent came forward and said, ‘Master, I knew you were a demanding person, harvesting where you did not plant and gathering where you did not scatter; 25 so out of fear I went off and buried your talent in the ground. Here it is back.’ 26 His master said to him in reply, ‘You wicked, lazy servant! So you knew that I harvest where I did not plant and gather where I did not scatter? 27 Should you not then have put my money in the bank so that I could have got it back with interest on my return? 28 Now then! Take the talent from him and give it to the one with ten. 29 For to everyone who has, more will be given and he will grow rich; but from the one who has not, even what he has will be taken away. 30 And throw this useless servant into the darkness outside, where there will be wailing and grinding of teeth.’”

Context and Setting

This parable is part of Jesus’ eschatological discourse, which includes teachings about the end times and the coming of the Kingdom of God. It is situated between the Parable of the Ten Virgins and the Parable of the Sheep and the Goats, all of which highlight the need for readiness and faithful stewardship in anticipation of the Lord’s return.

The Story

In the parable, a wealthy man goes on a journey and entrusts his property to his servants. He gives five talents to one servant, two to another, and one to the third, each according to their ability. The first two servants invest their talents and double the amount, while the third servant, out of fear, hides his talent in the ground.

Key Lessons

God has entrusted each of us with unique gifts, talents, and resources. We are called to use these wisely and productively for His glory and the benefit of others. This parable reminds us that we are stewards of what God has given us, and we should strive to make the most of these blessings.

We will be held accountable for how we use our gifts. The servants who invested their talents were commended for their faithfulness and diligence. This underscores the importance of being faithful in our responsibilities, regardless of the amount we have been given. Failing to use our gifts can lead to missed opportunities and negative consequences, both spiritually and practically. This teaches us the importance of taking responsibility for our actions and making the most of our opportunities.

Success in the Kingdom of God often requires diligence and hard work. The servants who doubled their talents did so through effort and initiative. This encourages us to be proactive and industrious in our endeavors, knowing that our efforts can yield significant spiritual and practical returns.

The term “talent” in the parable originally referred to a large sum of money, but it has come to symbolize any kind of gift or ability. The parable encourages believers to actively use their skills, time, and resources to serve God and others, rather than letting them go to waste.

God knows our capabilities and provides us with what we need to fulfill His purposes. We can trust that He equips us adequately for the tasks He sets before us. Ultimately, the parable points to the eternal rewards that come from faithful service. The commendation, “Well done, good and faithful servant,” reflects the joy and fulfillment that await those who diligently serve God and others with the resources they have been given.

Stewards of God's Grace

God has entrusted us with gifts so rare,

Talents and resources beyond compare.

As stewards of His bounty, we must strive,

To use them wisely, keep His love alive.

He knows our strengths, our every need,

Equips us well, in word and deed.

For His glory and others’ gain,

We work with joy, through sun and rain.

Success demands our diligent hand,

Proactive hearts, a firm, strong stand.

In every task, both great and small,

We answer His divine call.

Responsibility is ours to bear,

To seize each chance, with utmost care.

For inaction breeds a stagnant soul,

But effort leads to a greater whole.

Eternal rewards await the true,

For those who serve in all they do.

“Well done, good servant,” He will say,

As joy and peace crown our way.

Lord Jesus,

You have entrusted each of us with unique gifts, talents, and resources. As stewards of Your blessings, we seek to use them wisely and productively, for Your glory and the benefit of others. You know our capabilities and provide us with what we need to fulfill Your purposes. We trust that You equip us adequately for the tasks You set before us.

Grant us the diligence and hard work required for success. Help us to be proactive and industrious in our endeavors, knowing that our efforts can yield significant spiritual and practical returns. Guide us to take responsibility for our actions, making the most of our opportunities, aware that we will be held accountable for how we use our gifts. Protect us from inaction and complacency, so we do not miss opportunities or fall into spiritual stagnation.

Ultimately, we look to the eternal rewards that come from faithful service. May we hear Your commendation, “Well done, good and faithful servant,” and find joy and fulfillment in diligently serving You and others with the resources You have given us.

Amen.

Pericope:

VI: Ministry in Judea and Jerusalem

THE PARABLE OF THE TALENTS

Matthew 25:14-30

Gospel Acclamation

 I give you a new commandment: love one another as I have loved you.

Reflection Source:

Conversation with Copilot

Take What is Yours and Go

 "My friend, I am not cheating you. 

Did you not agree with me for the usual daily wage? 

Take what is yours and go."

(Matthew 20:13-14)

The day of the Lord is at hand (2 Thes 2:2). He has made the world firm, not to be moved; He governs the peoples with equity (Ps 96:10). Therefore, stand firm and hold fast to the traditions that you were taught (2 Thes 2:15). To this end He has also called you to possess the glory of your Lord Jesus Christ (2 Thes 2:15).   

Jesus said,  "What if I wish to give this last one the same as you? Or am I not free to do as I wish with my own money? Are you envious because I am generous?’ Thus, the last will be first, and the first will be last.” (Mt 20:14-16)

Today is the day to give what is fair and just to your hired laborers (Mt 20:4). You have agreed with them for their usual daily wage, sending them to work into your vineyard. (Mt 20:1-2) Always be faithful in give them their pay, beginning with the last and ending with the first (Mt 20:8). 

Let no one deceive you in any way (2 Thes 2:3). Know how you are loved by God, how you were chosen. The gospel of the Lord did not come to you in word alone, but also in power and in the Holy Spirit with much conviction. (1 Thes 1:4-5) Turn to God from idols to serve the living and true God (1 Thes 1:9)

Give thanks to the God always as you call to mind your works of faith and labor of love and endurance in hope of your Lord Jesus Christ, before your God and Father (1 Thes 1:2). May the Lord Jesus Christ Himself and God your Father, who has loved you and given you everlasting encouragement and good hope through His grace, encourage your hearts and strengthen them in every good deed and word (2 Thes 2:16-17).

God's love always brings glory that lifts you up to higher ground. Glory of making you victorious in all your circumstances and challenges in life (Ps 149:4). This is the glory of all those who are faithful to God (Ps 149:9).

Published:

August 23, 2024, 5:29 AM

August 23, 2023, 8:13 AM

Give Without Cost

"Without cost you have received; 

without cost you are to give."

(Matthew 10:8)

Lord Jesus, 

Your words are spirit and truth. Truly, I do not deserve to receive Your bountiful graces and blessings but still, out of Your love for me, you continue to give them all unconditionally. Be praised and glorified O Lord for You are good all the time!

You made me a servant who profits in the line of work that deals with service. The more service I do, the more prosperity and peace comes to me. 

Today, you have revealed to me that it is only fitting for me to also share what I have learned from you to others without cost. Please continue to be my guiding hand and freely give what I have received from You so that they too may profit and benefit as well. As they profit, I too will profit even more. 

In You, I am always at peace and living in the utmost comfort of Your love. Thank You so much for the continued outpouring of graces and blessings that makes us truly enjoy life to the full. 

May You continue to be with us each moment of our lives, giving praise and glory to the Father all our days. 

Amen.

Published:

July 11, 2024, 8:20 AM

July 13, 2023, 11:49 AM