Click here to listen to this 13-minute message.

In the parable of the talents (Matthew 25:14-30), three servants are given a few million Rands each by their master. Two invest the money and make a profit – they are praised by the master when he returns. The third hides the money away and returns it in full when the master returns – the master is not pleased! What is the difference between these two? Not so much that two made money and one didn’t, but rather that two were bold in making the money work for them, while the third was timid and fearful. The master had wanted all three servants to be courageous, to take risks, to be creative, to use the opportunity they had been given.

This is what God desires of us. We are all given opportunities to serve God and to serve the world. God’s expectation is that we embrace these opportunities and use them to the full – being bold, being courageous, knowing that God is present with us to equip us, and stepping out in faith.

(Unfortunately, the recording cut off the last few minutes, where I encouraged my congregation to seek and utilise opportunities as they come their way. And to trust in the presence of the Holy Spirit, who equips, empowers and accompanies us as we step out.)