Read Luke 16:19-17:10
Young athletes receive participation trophies in sports. Workers may be recognized for milestones at their job. We receive accolades for another year of leadership or volunteering. In youth service organizations, every activity seems to earn a badge, a cord, or a ribbon. Nearly everything comes with a ceremony and public recognition.
That is how the world seems to work. Appreciation and achievement motivate us to work harder, serve more, and increase our productivity. Even if we personally shy away from public recognition, we still feel the desire to affirm and celebrate others.
Because of this, Jesus’ words can sound surprising—perhaps even harsh. He tells His disciples, “When you have done all that you were commanded, say, ‘We are unworthy servants; we have only done what was our duty.’”
This is not a call to only outwardly act humbly in hopes of being praised. It is a call to genuine humility. Jesus is shaping His disciples according to His own character and pattern: “Who, though He was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but made Himself nothing, taking the form of a servant” (Philippians 2:6–7). After all, He came not to be served but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom (Mark 10:45).
This is Christ stamping His cross upon our hearts and minds. His cross meant suffering and self-giving love—and ours may as well. Yet the chapters leading up to this remind us of something crucial: before we ever serve the Master, the Master has served us. We already have an invitation to the banquet. We already have a place at the table. Heaven has already rejoiced over our repentance. Redeemed, purchased, and freed, we now live under Him in His kingdom—ready to serve and obey in thanksgiving.
Prayer: Lord, thank You for serving me by giving Your life for my sake. As I follow You, shape me according to Your example. Strengthen me to serve humbly, according to Your will and for the good of others. Amen.