“For much will be required of those to whom much is given” (Luke 12:48)
I am sure we all heard from our coaches or parents, “You only get out of it what you put into it!” Well, prayer and hard work has been the inspiration for so many who understood this wisdom. Not only for us as individuals but for us as parents, leaders, and influencers.
Jesus sacrificed so much, and the fruits of His sacrifice were eternal salvation for us. True sacrifice is understanding that what God has given us is not merely to be used for ourselves but is intended for others. What further sacrifice is God perhaps calling you to make at this time that, in God’s hands, will bear much fruit? How are you inspired by the sacrifices of others in Ukraine and around the world? In the Gospel of Luke, Jesus speaks about our sacrifice for others: “From everyone to whom much has been given, much will be required; and from the one to whom much has been entrusted, even more will be demanded.” (Lk 12:48 NRSV)
When I put this together with the parable of the talents it makes sense. We know how the parable goes. The upshot is that Jesus says through the man in the parable, “So take the talent from him (who hid it) and give it to the one with the ten talents. For to all those who have, more will be given …” MT 25:27-29 (NRSV). All that God has given you is intended to help you fulfill your potential to become Jesus for others, giving to others what God requires you to give. Like before, this year’s Annual Eparchial Appeal is both a gift to those who will benefit from your generosity as much as you will benefit from your generosity.’
In Christ,
Most Rev. Bryan Bayda, CSsR
Eparch of Saskatoon, Apostolic Administrator of Toronto and Eastern Canada
