“USELESS” SERVANTS OF THE LORD
In ancient times, a servant had typically two sets of chores to do, often in
succession: fieldwork first, and then housework afterwards. So when he
came in from the field after the first set of chores, he first had to
clean himself up and then proceed with the housework. Only after he had
finished serving his master could he attend to his own needs.
Strictly speaking, this servant received no thanks for such duties
performed under his master’s command. No thanksgiving was due to him at
all, and he had no claim to any special gratitude.
In today’s parable, Jesus is hinting at the Jews, especially in their
complacency as God’s chosen people. There was an expectation among them
that because of their special status, they were entitled to special
treatment. Making matters worse for them was their attitude of
superiority and self-righteousness.
Looking at ourselves, can it be that we, too, have such attitudes when
it comes to our relationship with God? Come to think of it, we can never
earn a covenantal relationship with Him. Nor is He ever indebted to us.
Everything is out of love and freedom, out of God’s own initiative, out
of the superabundance of His heart. Whatever our good works, sacrifices, achievements,
and the long years of faithful service to Him and His people — for all
these we have neither claim nor right to a reward. Because all is grace
from God, we are really useless servants
(useless, in the sense that we are unworthy).
And so rather than adopt a greedy determination to squeeze out of God
everything we can, our intention in serving Him is to be enriched in the
privilege and honor, the joy and gladness that come from the very
service we offer Him. Truly, that alone is already a reward in itself! Fr. Martin Macasaet, SDB
REFLECTION QUESTION: Do you serve the Lord without counting the cost?
Lord, help me to see that just by serving You with all I have, I already have all I need!
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