Unworthy Slaves

Unworthy Slaves

 
So you, too, when you do all the things which are commanded you, say, ‘We are unworthy slaves; we have done only that which we ought to have done.'” Lk. 17:10
 Today we are seeing the disappearance of words like “duty” and “ought”. I remember that when I first entered the Navy, the word “duty” took on a whole new meaning. I actually came to realize that I did have an obligation to give back to my country which had given me so much. However, after a short time that sense left and once again I was performing my “duties” only to be praised and recompensed. 
The Christian life can be the same way. We can start out serving joyfully and with the understanding that this is what I “ought to” have always done. But this, too, changes over time and when we feel we are not appreciated for what we have done we become embittered and cynical. I am just as guilty as the next guy. So what’s Jesus’ answer to this? Well, He basically throws a bucket of ice water on us. He gives us a reality check and puts things into perspective using the illustration of a servant. Here the servant’s work is not done when he comes in from the field. Why? He’s a servant. It’s his role all the time and it does not change. His completed work is what is expected of him, nothing more, nothing less: his duty. Jesus gives us the perfect example. He came “not to be served but to serve and give His life as a ransom for many.” Keeping things in perspective always helps with our own expectations of others and the recognition we think we deserve.
 
 
Fly Fishing tip of the day:  Bait fish will take the path of least resistance when avoiding predators. This makes sense, right? So why do I always cast my streamers “down and across”? Switch it up and cast upstream bringing the fly back towards you. This will imitate the natural path of the bait fish. It also enables you to be behind the fish lowering the percentage of spooking and allowing for a better hookset since the fish will eat the fly headfirst. Make sure though that you are keeping line tension by picking up the line as the fly moves towards you. Depending on the current you may have to be pretty quick.