If you wish to read the texts click here: Titus 2:1-8,11-14; Lk 17:7-10
These verses are exclusive to
Luke and contain a parable. In the first part of the parable the disciples are
cast in the role of the master through Jesus’ question, “Will any of you who
has a servant…” (17:7). No one would expect a master to ask a servant to sit at
table and serve him, rather the servant would be expected even after he has
come from the field, to get the master’s supper ready and serve the master.
Moreover, the servant will not be thanked simply because he has done what was
required of him. At the end of the parable and in the relationship with God,
the disciples are cast in the roles of servants. They must realise that like the
servant of the parable they will also have to do all that is required of them
and not expect any thanks because they have only done what was expected of
them.
Very few of us regard that we
have been given the thanks due to us already in the service that we have been
allowed to provide. We wait for further thanks and commendations. It is not
only spiritual but also prudent and practical to do what we are doing and
expect no thanks at all. If it does come we accept it in all humility, whereas
if it does not come we are not disappointed.
Is your Second Maxim inspired by this scripture passage??
ReplyDeleten
>Do you constantly expect thanks and praise for all the good that you do?
ReplyDelete- When I do some one-off good deed for complete strangers, I expect nothing. The surprised looks on their faces are my reward.
But when I do something that I consider above and beyond normal activity for someone I know, then yes, I like to be thanked because it makes me feel good and I like a confirmation of the difference I have made as feedback of sorts for future actions.
I do not like being praised because I know the worth of my work. I understand the words that gush forth in appreciation are a result of something I did differently. I would rather the good that I do normally be recognised.
Kate