Initiative

Ever since last week, when the lectionary reading was Matthew 25:14-30 -- the parables of the 3 servants and the talents -- I've been thinking about an alternate ending to the parable.

What would have happened if the 3rd servant had reluctantly entered the presence of the master and told him that he had taken the one talent, put it to work for the master, and then lost it, instead of burying it to protect it?

What would have been the master's reaction?

Would he have been angry because "he reaps where he does not sow?" Would he have been at least satisfied that the servant had attempted to use use the money wisely? I think he would have.

I think that the master would have been pleased by the initiative necessary for failure rather than angry because of the servant's fear of loss.