Pastor’s sermon is based on the gospel reading. The first two slaves imitate the greedy behavior of their master. The third slave refuses to do so because of the master’s behavior. The master DOES admit that he reaped where he did not sow and gathered where he did not scatter. In the third slave’s view, the master’s ways are not to be repeated. So, are we to think the third slave’s opinion of the master is accurate? The traditional interpretations tell us to IGNORE his opinion, because it’s only based on his own unfounded fear. This is despite slave #3 having the guts to say it to his master’s face! Perhaps the role of the third slave is to prompt us to consider that the master’s behavior and the economic system encouraged by this parable do not reflect God and the ways of the kingdom of God. And how about that!? Just when we thought we had this parable all figured out!
