Making Good Use Of The Talent Of Time

Fr. Paul Donlan reflects on the importance of recognizing time, work, friendship, and leisure as God-given talents, while also guarding against their “anti-talents” such as wastefulness, sloth, self-centeredness, and laziness - then emphasizes that time is a treasure to be used prudently, citing personal experiences—such as his grandfather’s mantra about having a system of reminders of order and diligence. He stresses that work, when offered to God, gains eternal value, and that friendship, grounded in openness, kindness, and love, reflects Christ’s own joy, warmth, and humanity. The meditation highlights leisure not as idleness but as an opportunity for hobbies and creative pursuits like reading, music, cooking, or nature — that both enrich the self and foster community. Drawing on the Gospel, he notes how Jesus himself embraced both physical labor as a carpenter and recreation through walking and time outdoors, always doing things well and with purpose. Ultimately, we are all called to self-examine, discover, and develop our own talents for the benefit of others and the glory of God, using even small amounts of leisure wisely.