Just as the rod of Aaron represented life, the rod of Moses represented power and authority (Exodus 4:1–3). When Moses threw his rod on the ground, it became a writhing snake. The lesson was a potent one to Moses—God had called him to deliver the Israelites from Egypt. If he refused. If he threw away his rod, it would become an ugly, despised, and fearful thing.
The New Testament speaks of the “buried” talent. But what of the “discarded” talent? The discarded talent is responsibility shunned, power unexpressed, authority unused. It is the curse of Meroz, who refused to come “to the help of the Lord, to the help of the Lord against the mighty” (Judges 5:23, KJV). It is the sin of John Mark, who refused to enter Asia Minor with Paul and Barnabas and turned and went home (Acts 13:13). It is the sin of Ephraim, who “equipped with the bow, retreated in the day of battle. They did not keep God’s covenant” (Psalm 78:9–10, Berkeley).
I owe my life to those who did not discard their call from God. Paul brought the message to Europe and (in time) I heard the story of Jesus. Luther braved opposition and freed the gospel from unbiblical entanglements (for me). And what shall I say of Jesus Christ, who did not discard either the cup or the baptism (for me)? Shall I renege on my responsibility to God’s call, which could mean life to others? Do I dare throw down the rod, or put my hand back inside my bosom where it can be safe and uncommitted?
Of the heroes who do not discard their talent and who fulfill their responsibilities courageously, God says, “Of whom the world was not worthy” (Hebrews 11:38). That is His goal for me—and all His disciples—to make the world unworthy of us! God, make me worthy of that unworthiness!
“That I may know Him, and the power of His resurrection and the fellowship of His sufferings, being conformed to His death” (Philippians 3–10).
Daily with the King 