JoyThe parable of the talents recorded in Matthew 25 ends with an invitation from the returning master to the faithful servants, “Enter into the joy of your Lord” vs 23 NKJ. A “well done” from an earthly supervisor is of great value to a worker, but Christ in the parable directed the thoughts of those listening to a Heavenly Lord, Himself, who would be leaving and one day soon to return. The servants' faithfulness was and will be rewarded, but what is this “Joy” and what are the keys to experiencing it? First, consider that “the joy of your Lord” suggests a singular devotion to one master. A loyal servant recognizes the master as lord and owner of all. Selfless devotion drives the use of every talent entrusted to him or her. Secondly, the master alone determines the type and size of each talent(s) the worker is to use. The dedicated servant will have a complete trust in the master’s choice of service. Christ, the Master, is soon to return. His joy is our redemption. Empowered by the Holy Spirit we enter into the joy of our Lord when we along with the talents and blessings received, together with all the increase, are dedicated to the salvation of others. The familiar chorus proclaims, “If you want joy, real joy, wonderful joy, Let Jesus come in to your heart”. Sing it now! Sing it each day as you enter into the eternal Joy of your Lord. by Don Wilson, Finance Committee Chair
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