Previous Challenge Entry (Level 4 – Masters)
Topic: Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25:14:30, Luke 19:12-27) (03/07/24)
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TITLE: The Widget Wipeout | Previous Challenge Entry
By Donna Powers
03/12/24 -
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Everyone had plenty to say about the type of widgets they used. Some people wore large green widgets, which they claimed were designed precisely according to an ancient tradition. Other people preferred triangular blue widgets made only of natural ingredients. Different groups used purple rectangular widgets and were emphatic about how peaceful their widgets made them feel.
Almost everyone wanted to display widgets. Countries too poor to buy widgets always begged widget factories to donate their castoffs since they wanted to show loyalty to their countries. Many factories donated to poor countries but needed to know which widgets were best.
This story begins when the factory gets a visit from a stranger. Many in the factory had heard tales about the stranger. That day, he spoke to the workers and taught them about having faith in their Creator and how the Creator loves them. The stranger told them that widgets were OK but had no eternal value. He suggested that widget workers could more profitably spend their time growing fruits and vegetables to feed the poor.
At first, the stranger seemed like a heretic, but as they spent time with him, they became convinced he was telling the truth. After spending the afternoon with the stranger, most workers agreed they would plant food or go fishing. The stranger asked for three volunteers to go out and to share this new way of living. Three workers quickly volunteered and went off in different directions to follow the stranger's directions.
After six months, the three workers returned. While they had been gone, the little factory had been torn down, and a thriving farm had taken place. No one wore any widgets. The workers now had a profitable farm. They also sold honey and canned fish. They all agreed this new way of believing gave them peace and joy. When those who had been sent arrived home, they asked them to share.
The first worker told the people he had taught ten countries how to use basic farming, and those countries were now doing well. The stranger, now known as The Leader, smiled and praised the worker. He told him, "You have done well. I will now promote you to district manager, and you will be the manager of all the neighborhoods in Widgetopolis." The worker smiled and prepared to celebrate his promotion.
The second worker proudly said he had trained people in eight new countries. The Leader smiled at him, too, and said, ""you have also done well. I now declare you the manager of the neighborhoods in Widget City."" This man rejoiced as well, happily looking forward to his promotion.
The third worker smiled as he told the factory owner, "I did as I thought best, Sir. I remained here and remained ready to share my new knowledge with all who asked. I made a modern farm in my backyard. It is perfect farm. Everyone who passes by can now ask about it. I even made a sign that says, 'Ask me about farming.' I thought it best I stay where I am rather than take the risk of traveling."
"And what was the result?" asked The Leader.
"No one asked or visited," answered the worker. "I don't understand it. I am there for all to see. My farm is as perfect as perfect can be, yet no one came in to ask about it."
The Leader shook his head in frustration. "You have been foolish. When you were given the job of sharing, it didn't mean for you to stand there, and hope people noticed you. To share, you must make more of an effort. I'm sorry, but there is not a place for you to work at this farm. However, you can still have a role in this kingdom. Because I know you truly desire to do what is right, I now send you to peel the potatoes at the newly built Faith Kitchen, where your efforts can still have a purpose."
"I shall go where I am sent,"" responded the third worker, with sincere humility.
And so, he did, and his efforts were mightily blessed.
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