Reflection
Today’s Gospel, which takes place on Jesus’ way to Jerusalem, completes his dialogue on the coming kingdom of God. Jesus is talking about the kingdom of God present for us here and now on earth. Today we receive instruction on the proper role we play in building up the kingdom as servants of God. Place yourself in the Gospel as one of the Apostles listening to Jesus on this journey.
After working all day in the field – an image of humble and faithful stewardship – our attitude should remain one of humble service. Jesus begins by asking the Apostles to consider themselves as masters and how they would treat a servant. But Jesus ends by reversing things and asks the Apostles to identify themselves with the servants. The Apostles should exercise their leadership roles in the Church not as masters, but as servants and carry out what they have been commanded to do, without complaint and without a sense of entitlement.
This teaching applies to us maybe not as leaders in the Church (although for some it does) but as true and faithful disciples of Jesus. We are called to be humble servants. Humble servants don’t keep score or try to earn their way to heaven. Humble servants respond to the salvation that is offered through the death and resurrection of Jesus. This is the fourth and final piece of the proclamation and spreading of the Good News, the Kerygma. Given the knowledge of what Jesus willingly did for you and me, choosing death on a cross to rescue us from slavery to sin and the power of Satan, and rising from the dead to conquer death and the Evil One, how should we respond? Being a humble servant is the appropriate path forward.
Jesus didn’t just die, He “..cried out in a loud voice, “Father, into your hands I commend my spirit”; and when he had said this he breathed his last.” (Lk. 23:46). Jesus handed over his spirit to complete His mission of conquering sin and death. He did this for you, and for me. Humble servants respond to Divine Love with humble, devoted albeit imperfect love.
Being a humble servant results in joy and happiness, both in the present and for eternity.
Today’s Questions for Prayer and Reflection
How is my hope in God’s promise of eternal life? Do I trust him to lead me on the right path?
Source for today’s reflection: https://epriest.com/reflections/view/3244