TUESDAY, 3.21.23: Ready to Serve – Luke 12:35-59
Few of us want to be earthly “servants,” but Jesus used that image for our relationship to God. Good servants were always ready to respond to their master. Bad ones lost their jobs (or, in Roman times, even worse). Jesus didn’t endorse Roman cruelty. He simply made the point that choosing to serve God is a matter of eternal life or death.
Reflection
• Jesus’ words about bringing division rather than peace (12:51-53) may strike us as odd. Isn’t Jesus “the prince of peace” (cf. Isaiah 9:6)? Yes—but he knew his kingdom’s principles (including peace) were so unlike the world’s that at times they’d cause division. Have family members, friends or co-workers ever misread or criticized choices rooted in your loyalty to God?
• In verse 41, Peter asked, “Lord, are you telling this parable for us or for everyone?” Jesus seemed to say that the parable was for all who wish to be “faithful and wise managers,” which invited Peter (and us) to take it seriously. As we keep reading Luke, how can you ask about each passage you read, “Lord, what do you want me to hear in this passage”?
Prayer: Lord Jesus, thank you for equipping and calling me to serve. Make me a “faithful and wise manager,” valuing myself and who you made me to be. Amen.