Duty

"When you have done all commanded you, say: We are unworthy slaves, we've just done our duty," Luke 17:10.

Who's talking here? Jesus. The Master. Who's he talking to? His disciples. His slaves. wow. Humility and perspective don't come easy, do they? I am easily impressed with my obedience, like when I grace you with my presence at church but I wanted to sleep in. Doing God a favor, here. But, here, Jesus' context: Forgiven, so do forgiveness. Duty to forgive the brother who sins against me seven times in a day. His context shows up my ugly heart in light of a despised Samaritan falling on his face to give Jesus thanks. Increasing the reach a little, Jesus' context is duty to share my wealth with needy people. His context: Slaves either of God or of Mammon (wealth). Always. One or the other. One will be master, never both. God's kingdom shows itself in real communion among his people. Duty.

Today we share amazing grace with a brother or sister and, together, we worship. We confess Jesus, Master of our lives. For whom we will do duty. Thankfully.