If therefore ye have not been faithful in the unrighteous mammon, who will commit to your trust the true riches ?
Luke 16:11 ASV
Sunday morning arrived with the teacher and his disciple standing outside collaborating plans. Tony would be handed the reins presenting his carefully planned lesson. They continued to prep and a congregation of homeless believers began gathering inside.
Robby had worked diligently over the years, building this ministry. He was blessed with an indoor room after years of witnessing from the street corner. In the past, Robby had spent many cold Sunday mornings drawing in crowds with the offer of hot coffee and a bite to eat. He knew the value of an indoor location that allowed his ministry to continue.
A disagreement arose between the two regarding a portion of the lesson. It involved real money. Tony wanted to put a ten-dollar bill in the hands of men and women with a lifetime of drug use and mental illness.
Robby voiced his reservations. He stated they had to be careful not to waste God’s money. Robby expected selfish endeavors, like drugs and alcohol, would be exploited. Tony also suspected that Robby was afraid his people would be enticed away by the temptation, but it was never discussed between them.
Otherwise, Tony did not see the issue. His original plan for the money would be wasted on his own selfish motives. That was before God spoke to him.
Eventually, Robby realized his disciple was committed and he compromised. He planned to divide the people, seeing that only a small remnant would get the opportunity.
Love Thy Neighbor
Tony carefully presented his interpretation of a few bible verses, giving relative life applications. “If you meet your brother at the bus stop, half your sandwich with him,” said Tony. The lesson went on to explain the importance of being faithful with what God has given us.
Tony gave a conclusion submitting the platform back to Robby. Robby stepped up to the pulpit with confidence. He seemed pleased that the message had been received and gave a simple announcement. “There is more if anyone wants it.” He attempted to separate those who wanted more of God from the rest. With that, Robby dismissed the congregation in prayer.
Most were eager to leave yet a handful stayed to satisfy their curiosity. The remaining were each handed ten dollars with explicit instructions that the money was not theirs. Instead, they were to find someone in need and help.
The group graciously accepted and Tony would be content with the results regardless of their choices. He believed the Holy Spirit would take over now, leaving the rest between them and God. Tony had heard God say “If they can’t be trusted with a measly 10 dollars, then how can I trust them with the Kingdom of Heaven?”