I’m always amazed how Jesus’ parables
convey a kingdom not estranged from this world, but very much bound to it. Despite the eschatological-end times dimension found in Matthew 25, the three stories within focus on the work
accomplished in the present.
In the first narrative we come across
ten virgins awaiting the bridegroom in order to enter the wedding festivities.
The wise maidens carry extra oil for their lamps. They are able to join the celebration unlike
the five who missed the procession due to their search for fuel. The
Scout Motto be prepare can be invoked
here. The parable of the talents is the second narrative. A master, about to embark
on a long journey, entrusts three servants with talantons, dispensed in proportion to their proficiencies. Here, the good servant multiplies the
wealth of the master.
The last tale ushers the listener
into the future as the Son of Man sits as king on his throne. Here, we watch
him separate people as a shepherd segregates sheep from goats. Those positioned
to his right are ones who cared about earthly matters: they fed, clothed, cared.
Yet we must remember these
humanitarian concerns are fueled by anticipation for the coming bridegroom,
master, king; thus rendering them kingdom works.
Kingly people live life fully in
the present, shaped and marked by a future. What, then, does it mean for the
wise artist to be prepared? Are we hording, neglecting, or diminishing our
talents or are we investing our time and energy to multiplying what the master
has apportioned? And, most importantly, does our wisdom and entrepreneurial
skills work to re-establish the best of humanity?
If Jesus is the good king his
priority becomes care of his kingdom. A thriving kingdom provides the basic
needs for its inhabitants; therefore, by seeking human flourishing through our
practice of medicine, economics, law, or art, we become kingly servants.
It took the life, death, and resurrection
of Christ to re-establish humanity. Let’s follow his lead as we wait for him,
the bridegroom, master and king.
--Maria
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