The Fourth Talent

This Sunday's lesson, from Matthew, is what is commonly called the Parable of the Talents. I've always gotten a little unsettled by the ending of the story when the one who had merely buried his money must surrender it to the one who had made the most. That God prefers the wealthy and powerful is a concept/heresy - prevalent in churches - that makes me sick.

A colleague shared the following story with me yesterday by William White. I like it.

Once there was a businessman who entrusted his property to his employees. To one servant he gave $5,000, to a second, $2,000, and third $1,000. The first two invested the money and returned 100 cents on the dollar, while the third employee buried the money in the earth. On the day of accounting he returned the original money to the master and was soundly chastised for failing to invest wisely.

A fourth employee was given $3,000 to invest. He returned several days after the accounting took place and approached the master cautiously. "I invested the money that you left with me," he confessed, "but the investment turned sour. Not only has your money gained no interest, I have lost nearly $1,000 of the amount you entrusted to me."

The master smiled at his worried servant. "Well done, good and faithful servant. You invested as you were commanded. You have been found faith over a little, I will set you over much."