We are merely servant

Gospel

Luke 17:5-10

Say, 'We are merely servants'

The apostles said to the Lord, ‘Increase our faith.’ The Lord replied, ‘Were your faith the size of a mustard seed you could say to this mulberry tree, “Be uprooted and planted in the sea,” and it would obey you.

‘Which of you, with a servant ploughing or minding sheep, would say to him when he returned from the fields, “Come and have your meal immediately”? Would he not be more likely to say, “Get my supper laid; make yourself tidy and wait on me while I eat and drink. You can eat and drink yourself afterwards”? Must he be grateful to the servant for doing what he was told? So with you: when you have done all you have been told to do, say, “We are merely servants: we have done no more than our duty.”’

This Gospel passage from Luke reminds us that faith, even if small like a mustard seed, has great power, but our service to God is not about earning gratitude—it is about faithfully doing our duty without expecting praise. We are called to humility, recognizing that serving God and others is simply what we are meant to do.

Reflection Question

In what ways can I grow in faith and serve others humbly, without seeking recognition or reward?

Short Prayer

Lord, increase my faith and teach me to serve with humility, remembering that I am your servant called to do your will without seeking praise. Help me to trust in your power and live each day in faithful obedience. Amen.

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