Faithful, Not Perfect
Matthew 25:21 (CEB) · The Gospel on Stage and Screen
“His master replied, ‘Excellent! You are a good and faithful servant!’” — Matthew 25:21 (CEB)
Listen to what the master says, and what he doesn’t say. He doesn’t say “excellent ROI” or “impressive strategy” or “flawless execution.” He says faithful. Not flawless. Not heroic. Not the best performer in the group. Faithful.
The servant showed up, engaged with what was given, and risked something. That was enough to earn the master’s deepest praise.
If faithfulness replaced perfection as your standard, what would change? You might stop waiting until you feel ready. You might try the thing you’ve been postponing because you’re afraid of getting it wrong.
You might discover that the God who gave you the gift isn’t keeping score on your mistakes. God is watching for willingness, for any sign that you trust the giver enough to try.
God, we confess that we often wait for perfection before we act. Remind us today that you celebrate faithfulness, not flawlessness, and that our willingness matters more than our results. Amen.