Holy Spirit, teach me the graces of servant hood...

Luke 17:5-10
                                         
In the context (Luke 17) of three other key teachings –on sin, forgiveness, faith and gratitude - Jesus reminds his disciples to gracefully take on their identity as ‘ordinary’ servants. Although we might manage this organization, teach that course, advocate for that point of justice, or even run for political office, when it comes down to it, we are all ‘ordinary’ servants.  In the ways of society where fame, fortune, and success are touted, accolades are given and allowances are made for those of higher or prominent positions. But in the ways of God, Jesus teaches that we are not to strive for preferential treatment, applause or even thanks for our efforts. Rather we are to strive for, expect, and be content with, simple and even hidden service to others.  When I, like Jesus, fully embrace servant-hood, I will avoid tying millstones of sinful ways into other’s lives. Rather, forgiveness, faith, and gratitude will be able to flow from the well-springs of God’s mercy through my life to others.  Am I willing to be an ordinary servant? Holy Spirit, teach me the graces of servant hood.   
  
The law of the Lord is perfect; it gives new strength.  (Psalm 19:7)  
                                     
Jesus didn't say, 'Blessed are those who care for the poor.' He said, 'Blessed are we where we are poor, where we are broken.' It is there that God loves us deeply and pulls us into deeper communion with himself.
Henri Nouwen
 
www.gospelmysteryoftheday.ca  & Gospel Mystery of the Day on Facebook
Soli ad gloriam Dei