When He Comes

Text: Luke 19:11-27

The familiar passage begins with the note that Jesus was now nearing Jerusalem. The growing crowd noticed this as well, and we are told that Jesus spoke in order to correct their expectations. Messianic fervor was increasing with the size of the crowd; anticipation that Jesus could be the one to take control and lead the jubilant throng into political liberation was gaining headway.

Jesus responded with a story which must have sounded familiar to many in the audience. Years earlier, following the death of King Herod, there was significant political intrigue and posturing among his three sons vying for the stamp of Rome as his successor. Archelaus, one of the three, made a trip to Rome to plead his case and curry favor with those in power. While none of the three were especially likable fellows, this son was probably the most ruthless of the three. Gone for quite some time, he returned with only Judea and Samaria designated as his territory. He also returned in a foul mood, and executed a number of operatives known to have opposed his designs on power. Jesus' journey now had him near the boundary between Judea and Samaria.

The point of the story is both similarity and contrast, much as with the parable of the unrighteous judge. Like Archelaus, the one who will reign will come in his own time, probably when he is no longer widely expected. There would be no fanfare such that everyone would know and specifically prepare for his arrival at the last instant. There will be those diligently at the king's business; yes, the king. For while he was not king when he left, he will be upon his return, just as the former nobleman in the story--whether or not it was a reference to the real events of a not-so-distant past.

There is great reward for those who are diligent in doing kingdom business. One wonders what the third servant might have been doing with his time and effort while the master's money lay in the ground. Or need we look no further than our own use of the riches of our master to find the answer? Let's invest wisely in the days ahead and repent of those gone by. The five will be better than the empty return and will still be commended.