“Increase our faith” the disciples say. And Jesus tells them that they have enough faith. This is the way that today’s gospel begins. Then we hear Jesus talk about the faith of a mustard seed and the work of a slave. The two seemingly don’t go together but Jesus surprises us that way sometimes. Just before the disciples ask for an increase in their faith Jesus tells them that they are not to be a “stumbling block”, that they are to “rebuke” a disciple who sins and that they are to forgive someone over and over again. To which they cry “Give us some more faith!” But Jesus knows that they already have all the faith they will ever need. When Jesus says, “If you had the faith…” the “if” clause has the understanding, not contrary to the fact but according to the fact. So that it sounds like this, “If you had the faith of a mustard seed, and you do…” The disciples have all of the faith that they will need. Faith to accomplish the work set before them, faith to forgive over and over again, faith not to be a “stumbling block” to another, faith to help others see their sins as they looked at their own, and we do too. The part about the work of a slave is another character thing. It is also about the equality of Jesus’ disciples. We don’t understand slavery really, except through our study of history. We balk at the stories that involve slaves, but the truth is we don’t have to have a firsthand experience of slavery to know about doing what is required of us and not seeking glory because of it. The fact that the slave worked all day in the field and then saw to the needs of the master before any of his stuff was the way of things. He did his responsibility and then received his due. The slave expected nothing in return except what he was promised. No flashing light, no posting of how great a salve he was, no marching bands, no jewels in his crown, just his meal and a place to sleep. Maybe that’s the real hang up. We want some stars in our heavenly crown when in reality there is no crown, except God’s. Whether we are St. Augustine or the one who takes out the trash on Sunday, all service receives the same reward, life eternal. “Increase our faith”. It is enough for what Jesus has called us to do…follow Him and put on the character of a disciple, which is that of a salve. Peace.
Posted on: Sun, 06 Oct 2013 12:16:36 +0000
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