Scripture

“Think of us in this way, as servants of Christ and stewards of God’s mysteries.” 1 Corinthians 4:1

Reflections

Have you ever thought of yourself as a servant of Christ and a steward of God’s mysteries?  This is how the Apostle Paul described himself.  Although we are not the Apostle Paul, this would be an entirely appropriate way to look at ourselves.

In ancient times, servants or “slaves” were purchased or born into their master’s family and served the master until they died or until the master decided to free them.  Some slaves had developed such a close and loving relationship with the master’s family that they wanted to continue serving, even when they could go free.  That’s the idea Paul and others were conveying when they referred to themselves as servants of Christ.  The Lord has bought us with a high price (1 Cor. 6:20), and those who come to know Him desire to abandon all rights to Him and choose to serve Him faithfully.

A steward, by contrast, is a manager entrusted with something of value.  We have been entrusted with the gospel of Jesus Christ, known to us but a mystery to others.  Our privilege and responsibility are to make the message known, not keep it to ourselves but boldly share it.

If you were to think of yourself as a servant of Christ Jesus and a steward of God’s mysteries today, what would your day look like?

Prayer

Lord God, thank you for what you have done for me.  I want to serve you.  Thank you for entrusting me with the gospel.  Help me not to sit on it or squander it.  In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Full Reading: 1 Corinthians 4:1-13