Jesus’ Life: Chapter 15 – Jesus’ Ministry Before His Passion
In Old Testament times, it wasn’t unusual for the master of a household to appoint a steward, often a trusted and faithful slave, to take charge of his family affairs. The slave’s duty was to manage the daily work of other slaves.
Jesus used this well-known system to demonstrate to his disciples what was expected of them or indeed, all Christian teachers. He said, “Blessed is that slave whom the master finds at work when he comes. I tell you the truth, the master will put him in charge of all his possessions”. But if the slave, “Begins to beat his fellow slaves and to eat and drink with drunkards, then the master of that slave will come on a day when he does not expect him and at an hour he does not foresee…, and assign him a place with the hypocrites, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth”.
Jesus’ message was very clear; He was warning against failure to tend to the needs of the people we minister to. The consequences were dire and Jesus would return. (Matthew 24:45-51, Luke, 12:41-46)
Thought
Although directed, in the first instance, at Jesus’ disciples, the parable also holds a warning for everyone. Our words and actions are seen by others, we influence them, we become their teachers. So, beware, don’t be a hypocrite!
Reflection
Lord Jesus, help me to remain pure in heart and loyal in my actions to your Word. Holy Spirit, strengthen my daily resolve to live as Jesus asked.
Prayer: Holy Spirit
Come Holy Spirit,
fill the hearts of your faithful
and kindle in them the fire of Your Divine Love.
Send forth Your Spirit and they shall be created,
and You shall renew the face of the earth.
O God, who by the light of the Holy Spirit
instructed the hearts of the faithful.
Grant, that by the same Spirit we may be truly wise
and ever rejoice in His consolation.
We ask this through Christ Our Lord. Amen.
