Subscription Lists
Point of Reference
by Fred Price
You may have noticed from some of my reference notes that I like to read, the information gathered then passed on to others who may not have the time or inclination to do so. I particularly enjoy reading books pertaining to history, not so much to gain knowledge of dates and figures, but to gain an understanding of what may have shaped people into the individuals and then the nations they have become.
I try to avoid stereotypical explanations of people, but can’t help but notice that some aspects of such descriptions are legitimate in noting certain nuances people often display. And while it is true that no one single people group will look and behave exactly alike, it is equally true that – as a whole – there are often physical features as well as character traits that they do indeed share.
How much influence does genetics exert? Can people be molded by the physical conditions under which they live; not just wealth or poverty – but can topography and weather conditions contribute to how we behave and who we become? How much has our ancestors’ accomplishments effected us (Proverbs 27:21) and how different are people as a result of their religion and cultural perceptions? (Proverbs 14:34 & Psalm 33:12) Questions that confound and bore some but which I find intriguing and possibly instrumental in understanding many of today’s perplexing problems around the world.
Having said all that, I want to share what I feel is some very insightful writing from an author of historical fiction. I enjoy his material because of the tremendous amount of research he does in preparing to write on a particular subject, relaying all the hard facts available and filling in what cracks exist in his knowledge with plausible, likely occurrences that flesh out the story without altering reality. In Michael Curtis Ford’s book, The Fall of Rome,1 he also reveals an unexpected grasp of Christian scripture. And while the scripture used (Matthew 25:14-30), is somewhat modified by the character espousing it; it is effective, practical and grounded in Biblical truth.
Odoacer, a real-life “barbarian,” led a devastating assault against the corrupt leadership of Rome during its final days; being the featured character of Mr. Ford’s novel. Like many mercenary warriors of his day, he had been employed by Rome in its military establishment; a practice so common that non-Latins had become the bulk of the fighting force protecting the wealth, ideals and integrity of the Roman Empire. Many more were clamoring for entry just beyond Rome’s boundaries; some to pillage and conquer, others to become “Roman”. Mismanagement, vice and greed; along with a huge influx of foreign immigrants pouring across Rome’s borders, finally sank the Empire that had ruled the known world for centuries.
Odoacer seems to have been a man seeking to escape the conditions of his homeland – which had been overrun by still other immigrants from the Far East – with a genuine appreciation for the concepts of Roman law, order and honor. Yet at almost every turn and despite his best intentions, he’d experienced only momentary success followed by disappointment and failure. Finally, on the brink of his most spectacular success, he was at his wits end; unsure of who he really was and full of doubt as to what to do next. It is precisely at this moment (according to Mr. Ford) that Odoacer became re-acquainted with a hermit/priest from his past; a man he had mixed feelings for, believing him to be a saint with just a touch of madness.
In their discussion, the hermit Severinus related the parable of the 4 servants and their talents; explaining how their master went on a trip to a far country, leaving them in charge of a portion of his wealth. To one he gave 5 talents, to another 2 and to one a single talent. The first 2 servants invested their talents wisely and doubled their holdings; the one, fearing his master and the risk involved, hid his for safekeeping. At their master’s return, all were called to give an account of their actions; two receiving praise and commendation, the other rejection and condemnation.
After a moment of silence, Odoacer asked about the fourth servant, of which he had heard nothing before. The old hermit admitted that a 4th servant was absent from the original telling of this parable, but asks Odoacer to consider the possibility and to contemplate the Master’s response. Suppose a 4th servant had been given 3 talents, which he duly invested like the other two, but which yielded nothing. Would his master’s judgment on him be similar – or worse – than that pronounced on the servant who hid his talent, returning no more yet no less than what he had been given? “No,” says Severinus, “I don’t believe it would, given what I know of the Master.” He would have been encouraged for his effort and instructed concerning any fault, and given another chance.
To which Odoacer asked, “Does God then reward poor investments of time and talents?” Certainly not, but he does favor those who embrace the opportunities they receive and attempt to make the most of them – even when they don’t turn out particularly well. For accepting opportunity implies occasional failure, seeing as how men are fallible beings. “Does God approve of failure?” Odoacer inquired again. No, rather it’s the attempt he appreciates. For accepting opportunity further implies faith in God’s bounty toward us as well as gratitude for his generosity and mercy. On the other hand, failing to recognize opportunity – refusing to even try to make something of it – signifies the opposite; separation from God and his purposes, lack of faith in his continuing goodness and provision, and ultimately arrogance and pride that speaks to a lack of trust in God and a reliance on ourselves.
Yes, the 4th servant lost the resources entrusted to him, but he didn’t squander them! He accepted the opportunity, took a chance, invested in good faith – and lost them. “Was he stupid?” Odoacer finally asked. Maybe, but that’s not a punishable sin! (Thank God) However, pride is; lack of resolution and timidity of purpose may be almost as bad. Because in the end, pride and fear are closely related. For when we fail to trust in God and refuse to step out in faith, we can do nothing more than rely on our own abilities instead of depending on God’s grace, provision and providence.
So, whether you’re trying to conquer an army, find a job, decide on a school or arrange a wedding, “Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be men of courage; be strong.” 1 Corinthians 16:13 “For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline.” 2 Timothy 1:6
1Published by St. Martin’s paperbacks
Rate it:
Fred Price - married (50 years), father of two grown children, grandfather of six.
Fred retired earlier this year after 42 years as a factory worker. He has always had a heart for young people and the challenges they face today. Over the years Fred has taught Discipleship Groups for High School and college students.
Receive the newest devotional each week in your inbox by joining the "Point of Reference" subscription list. Enter your email address below, click "Go!" and we will send you a confirmation email. Follow the instructions in the email to confirm your addition to this list.