His master replied, “Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness.” – Matthew 25:21 (NIV)

All of us understand the risky business of financial investments. With each dollar invested, we run the chance of gaining nothing or even losing our investment, even though we hope for a greater return on our money in the end. As uncomfortable as it is, we know that no investment is guaranteed to yield a profit, no matter how “sure” we may believe it to be. In today’s economy, we know this lesson all too well.

In Matthew 25, the servants entrusted with the Master’s wealth had two options: invest the money with no guarantees, or bury the money assured that at least nothing would be lost. When the Master returned from his long trip, which type of servant did he invite to enter his joy-filled presence? Clearly, only the one who risks the Master’s wealth by investing what is given is called a “good and faithful servant.” The other, who out of fear hides the Master’s money, is banished from his presence (vv.28-30).

One day, the risen Christ will return from his “journey.” What will he find in those to whom he has “entrusted his property?” What he hopes to find are risk-takers, those who refuse to hide their God-given “talents” but instead invest them for the sake of the kingdom. Where you live, there are probably immigrants, refugees, international students, migrant workers, or others who need God’s love and care. And you may be just the person God is calling to share that love with them. But caution! Doing so demands taking risks. But wouldn’t you rather take the risk and enter the master’s happiness, than play it safe and find yourself on the outside looking in at God’s Kingdom?

God, give me the courage to take risks so that others might experience your joy. Never let me shun the difficult because, in doing so, I may be shunning you and those whom you have sent me to serve. In Jesus’ name, Amen.