“To whom much is given, from him much will be required.” (Luke 12:48)

“To whom much is given, from him much will be required.” (Luke 12:48)

This biblical verse has transcended its sacred roots and become something of a cultural idiom. It has been paraphrased by many, including Teddy Roosevelt, Winston Churchill, FDR, and by Peter (Spider-man) Parker’s uncle who said, “With great power comes great responsibility.” Yet, Christ first spoke it as a reminder that we will be held responsible for what we have been given and how we use it. 

Each of us has received various blessings and spiritual gifts (time, talents, knowledge, skills, wealth, etc.), and we are expected to be use them to glorify God and to benefit others. This is not only responsible stewardship – using our gifts wisely – but mirrors God’s Own character. 

Our God is a “giving” God, and because He is so generous, His children are called upon to be generous; to imitate their Heavenly Father. It is also an affirmation of trust and thanksgiving to God by “paying it forward;” freely receiving and freely giving (Matt. 10:8); and through this act of sharing, we lose nothing but gain everything.

Fr. John