Luke 17:7-10 We are merely servants

The Servant, Painted by Yongsung Kim, Oil on canvas, Painted in 2016 © 2022, Yongsung Kim Art

Gospel Reading

Jesus said to his disciples: ‘Which of you, with a servant ploughing or minding sheep, would say to him when he returned from the fields, “Come and have your meal immediately”? Would he not be more likely to say, “Get my supper laid; make yourself tidy and wait on me while I eat and drink. You can eat and drink yourself afterwards”? Must he be grateful to the servant for doing what he was told? So with you: when you have done all you have been told to do, say, “We are merely servants: we have done no more than our duty.”’

Reflection on the painting

Today’s Gospel brings a sobering reminder of our human limitations, as Jesus describes us as ‘merely servants’. At first glance, this might seem harsh, but what does it truly mean? It goes beyond the idea of being subservient to a master or boss. To be a ‘servant’ in this context is to recognise that we are finite beings—there are limits to our abilities, achievements, talents, and even our generosity. These limitations exist because we are human, not divine. It is only when we understand that we are limited and seek to go beyond these limits, that we can find God. Jesus isn’t trying to diminish us or enslave us with this teaching. Instead, it’s a call to humility, a lesson in recognising and accepting our limits. This understanding invites us to see our limitations as something to treasure, for they point us toward God! Every time we encounter our limits—whether physical, emotional, or spiritual—it’s an opportunity to grow closer to the Lord. A beautiful visual representation of this concept is The Servant by Korean Christian artist Yongsung Kim, which depicts Jesus washing the disciples’ feet. This scene shows that Jesus first served us; now we are invited to serve him. In this painting, Kim captures the humility, grace, and love of Christ through the intimate act of foot-washing, which was a radical gesture of service and love that Jesus performed during the Last Supper.

by Father Patrick van der Vorst