“Jesus sets the parable up with a single thrust: faithfulness. The master entrusts “coins” to his servants, “each according to his ability,” not to confuse them with talents as in skills, but to press home stewardship. That line carries deep comfort. God knows each servant better than the servant knows himself, is mindful that they are dust, never wastes wounds or trials, and never expects what he has not first entrusted. The issue in the story is never the size of the deposit but the response to it. The five and the two both invest, and the master’s word is the same: “Well done, good and faithful servant… come and share my happiness.” Faithfulness, not brilliance, brings joy.”