The Investment
written by Leigh Riches.
1997 Oakden Baptist Church


The Investment

A Man carrying an opened letter walks towards a bank teller who is seated with a laptop computer.
Man:
Excuse me, I received this letter regarding some investments and I wasn't sure what it was all about.

Teller:
Let's have a look at the letter. (he reads it) Ah yes, just a standard evaluation letter. We don't keep specific figures & numbers here you see, but we do find that a regular check-up is always healthy. We never know when the master will return and require His investments to mature.

Man:
Well what's it all about? I don't understand what these investments are.

Teller:
Well, lets check it out on the computer What was you name?

Man:
Steve Coleman.

Teller:
I'll just enter your name in (he types on the computer) ... ah here you are. Look at that... wife, three children.... you have been blessed. Let's have a look at these investments.... (he types some more) here we are. According to this You've been given a great gift of teaching. Able to expound the scriptures, and explain biblical principles. That's a wonderful investment of the Lord's. How's that been going?

Man:
Oh... well.... It's true I did use to teach at a home bible study some time ago, and people did say they got a lot out of it. - I even enjoyed it myself, but ... well, I got kind of busy and well, haven't had the time to do much of it in the last few years. I mean, I enjoy being involved but I guess I've tried to assume a quieter,.... less active role within the church - you know how it goes.

Teller:
I see... It does say here that the returns have been lacking over recent years.... Hmm what about this one - It says here that God has given you skills which have enabled you to get a job in the building industry. As you know we don't set any minimum repayments, God prefers you to give as you have purposed in your heart. Have you been using this investment of skills to enable you to support the Lord's important work around the world?

Man:
Well, I do give a bit of money each week. I'd like to give more, but times are tight. I haven't got money to splash around - We're saving for a new car you know.

Teller:
OK.... let see there must be something else here. ( a few keystrokes) ... Yes, of course, the minimum investment that God makes in every Christians life - The ability to share the message with others that was shared to you. It says here that you've been a Christian for 15 years, You've had good teaching at your church over these years - that's 1,560 church services you know! You've even had a number of special seminars and missions events in recent years. How have you gone with the message God has entrusted to you? have you had any returns, or at least shared the message with others?

Man:
umm... I'd have to think about that one. It has been a long time since I spoke to anyone else about God.... non-christians I mean. I guess I haven't really taken the time to try and talk to other people that much..... I guess my investments aren't looking too healthy?

Teller:
Well, the returns do seem minimal - You still have time to get your investments working .... and God does like to re-invest in those who are producing fruit. Remember it's up to you - The rewards at the end of these investment are great - if we use them wisely and for God's glory..... God really want us to be Good and faithful servants.
end.