If you were responsible for managing a million dollars of your employer’s money in a manner that increased the investment, what would you do with it? How would you determine which investment opportunities were a good fit?

You would likely consider your employer’s values. What would he or she do with a million-dollar gain? You would also consider your own values. What would you do with a million-dollar gain?

Would you or your employer spend the money, save the money, or give the money to a worthy cause? Is there some combination of these three pathways that makes sense?

Moving into action with a good assessment of your employer’s values and your own, what would be your best next steps?

The three employees in Jesus’ story each moved into action. They were decisive. The first employee “began to invest the money and earned five more.” He doubled the employer’s money. Not bad. Not bad at all.

The second employee “also went to work and earned two more.” These are the kinds of employees you want on your staff. 

The third employee “dug a hole in the ground and hid the master’s money.” This employee took the easy way. To his credit, he didn’t lose the money, and he didn’t spend it. He also decided the best course of action was to do nothing. Nothing ventured; nothing gained. Nothing done; nothing won. 

Doing nothing with money entrusted to you by your employer to expand the business is not a good plan.

When the employer returned and asked for an accounting of what was entrusted to his employees, he was delighted with the employees who doubled what they were given. His response was the same when he addressed each of them:

“The master was full of praise. ‘Well done, my good and faithful servant.
You have been faithful in handling this small amount, so now I will give you many more responsibilities.
Let’s celebrate together! ’”

The employer rewarded his wise workers with praise, a raise, and a party. 

* What wise work will you do today? 
* How will you deploy your employer’s investment in you? 
* How will you maximize your opportunity?

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I will work in a manner worthy of reward.

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Our Father, empower me to work today and every day in a manner worthy of reward. Empower me to serve honorably and well. Direct me to the right lead measures. Deliver me from sideway distractions. May my workplace benefit abundantly from my effort. Amen.