HOMILY: TUESDAY OF 32ND WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME YEAR II.
THEME: SELFLESS SERVICE.
BY: FR GERALD M. MUSA.
Sometimes we put up an attitude of entitlement that says, “God, you owe me gratitude for the good works I do, for the gospel I preach, or for the charity I extend to others.” On the contrary, Jesus instructs his followers to consider serving as a God-given privilege. Authentic faith serves with joy and not necessarily for rewards, appreciation, attention, approval or praises to be obtained. Thus, faith is fully expressed in personal trust in God and entrusting oneself totally to the service of others. This service requires self-sacrifice. Jesus says a servant should not expect his master to thank him for doing his work. He advises his disciples saying, “So you also, when you have done all that is commanded you, say, ‘we are unworthy servants; we have only done what was our duty” (Luke 17:10). Therefore, we must not expect God to thank us for doing what is right; rather we should thank him for giving us the strength and privilege to do, that which is good. We like to count the services we have rendered to God, the laurels we have won in preaching the gospel, and the sacrifices we have made in our mission.
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It is not a bad thing to speak or reflect on our accomplishments. God made everything possible. What do you possess that you have not received? (1 Corinthians 4:7). Can we offer selfless services without always asking for reward, recognition, acknowledgment, or gratitude?
LUKE 17:7-10
Tuesday, 32nd Week.