Humble Servants of the Master

Humble Servants of the Master

Reflection on Luke 17:7–10

In this Gospel, Jesus presents a striking image: a servant coming in from the field after plowing or tending sheep. Instead of being thanked and served, he continues his duties—preparing the master’s meal and serving him first. Jesus concludes with the challenging words, “So you also, when you have done all you have been commanded, say, ‘We are unworthy servants; we have done what we were obliged to do.’”

This passage cuts to the heart of discipleship and humility. In a world that constantly tells us to seek recognition, Jesus reminds us that service in God’s Kingdom is not about reward or applause—it’s about love and obedience. The true disciple does not serve to be praised but serves because it is right, because it pleases the Master.

Our faith is not a transaction where obedience earns us divine favor; rather, it is a response of love to the One who first loved us. The grace of God is not something we can ever repay, nor are our good works a way of earning salvation. We are already recipients of mercy, called to live out that mercy through faithful service.

In the CFC community or in our daily lives, there are moments when our service feels unnoticed, our sacrifices unappreciated. Yet Jesus invites us to keep serving with a humble heart, knowing that the Father sees in secret (Matthew 6:4). When we work for God’s glory instead of our own, we find deep joy and peace in simply doing His will.

True humility, then, is not about self-deprecation—it’s about right relationship: knowing that all we have and all we can do come from God. The more we grow in humility, the freer we become to love and serve without expecting anything in return.

Key Takeaway:
Faithful discipleship means serving God with humility and gratitude, not for recognition but out of love for Him who first served us.

Closing Prayer:
Lord Jesus, teach us to serve You with humble hearts. Free us from the desire for praise and help us find joy in simply doing Your will. May our lives reflect Your love and obedience, and may we always say, “We are unworthy servants; we have done only what we ought to do.” Amen.