Recently, we had the opportunity of gathering as a whole staff (across our organisation) to dedicate our schools and the year ahead to God. What an amazing time of joy and celebration this was!
In Matthew 25:21, Jesus tells the parable of the talents.
‘His master replied, “Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!”’
As we gathered for our Dedication Service, I was reminded of the incredible privilege and responsibility we have as servants in God’s kingdom. And, I was also reminded of the rich diversity we have in our staff. Every person with unique gifts, talents and abilities, yet all of us using those gifts, talents and abilities to serve God in Christian Education!
The parable of the talents is a story that calls us to live with purpose, stewardship, and faithfulness.
In the parable, the master entrusts his servants with resources, expecting them to use them wisely. When he returns, it is not the size of their accomplishments that he praises, but rather their faithfulness in using what they were given.
“This parable speaks to a profound truth: God values our faithfulness, not just our outcomes .......”
It is a reminder that God does not measure us by worldly standards of success. He is looking for hearts that are faithful in the tasks He has placed before us.
This parable speaks to a profound truth: God values our faithfulness, not just our outcomes. In a world obsessed with results, achievements, and numbers, it is refreshing and humbling to remember that God’s perspective is different. He looks at our hearts. He values the effort, the intention, and the consistency with which we serve Him.
As those who have been called to Christian Education, we have each been entrusted with unique talents and opportunities. These may include teaching, administration, leading worship, or encouraging. Whatever our role, it all matters. It’s not just about the big, visible moments like graduation ceremonies or academic achievements. It is about the small, daily acts of faithfulness. The patient smile we offer a struggling student. The extra effort we put into preparing a lesson. The quiet prayer we say for our class before the day begins. The words of encouragement we share with a colleague.
These might seem small, but in God’s economy, nothing done in faith and love is wasted.
The parable of the talents ends with the beautiful reward: ‘Come and share your master’s happiness.’ This is not just a future promise; it is something we can experience now. When we serve faithfully, we experience the joy of knowing we are part of God’s work. We see glimpses of His kingdom in the lives of our students, in the encouragement of our colleagues, and in the victories along the way.
Let us embrace that joy this year. Let us approach our work with hearts full of faith, hope, and love. And let us commit to being faithful in the tasks God has entrusted to us, no matter how big or small they may seem.
May we run the race set before us with perseverance and joy, so that at the end of this year (and indeed, at the end of our lives) we might hear those beautiful words: ‘Well done, good and faithful servant’!
David Gillman — CEO Christian Schools Tasmania