‘…We are unworthy servants; we have only done what was our duty.’” – Luke 17:10
A nurse stayed through the night with a dying patient, holding her hand long after her shift ended. In the morning, the grateful family wept with thanks. Later, her manager noted, “I hope you know we can’t pay you for those extra hours.” The nurse nodded peacefully. “I wasn’t working for pay,” she said. “I was serving a person. That’s not overtime; it’s my purpose.”
Jesus redirects our perspective on discipleship from a transaction to a relationship of loving duty. He uses the image of a servant who, after a full day’s labor, does not expect special praise for simply fulfilling his obligations. This is not a call to servility, but to a profound humility that recognises that even our best efforts can never put God in our debt. Our obedience and service are not “extra credit” that earns us a reward; they are the baseline response of a heart that has been saved by grace. Our security comes not from our perfect service record, but from the faithful love of God, in whose hand the souls of the just rest securely.
Therefore, serve God not for applause, but out of love and gratitude for the unmerited grace that has already made you His own. Do your duty joyfully, and find your rest not in your accomplishments, but in His promise.
A Journey of Reflection and Action
- Journal Prompt: Reflect on moments when you served others quietly, without recognition. How did that shape your understanding of serving God?
- Scripture Meditation: Read Luke 17:7–10 slowly, asking the Spirit to renew your heart’s motivation for service.
- Sharing: Encourage someone who feels unnoticed in their work or ministry; remind them that God sees their faithfulness.
- Group Discussion: Talk about the difference between serving out of obligation and serving out of love.
- Practical Step: Choose one act of hidden service this week—something done purely for God’s glory, not human praise.
Join Us in Prayer
Lord Jesus, teach me to serve with a heart that seeks only Your pleasure. Free me from the need for recognition, and let every act of obedience flow from love and gratitude for Your grace. May my joy be found not in being seen, but in being faithful. Amen.
Next Step on Your Journey
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Scripture Footnote & Further Reading
Adapted from the Catholic Daily Reading for Tuesday, November 11, 2025.
Further Reading:
- First Reading: Wisdom 2:23–3:9
- Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 34:2–3, 16–19
- Gospel: Luke 17:7–10
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