“When a servant comes in from plowing or taking care of sheep, does his master say, ‘Come in and eat with me’? No, he says, ‘Prepare my meal, put on your apron, and serve me while I eat. Then you can eat later.’ And does the master thank the servant for doing what he was told to do? Of course not. In the same way, when you obey me you should say, ‘We are unworthy servants who have simply done our duty.’” Luke 17:7 NLT
Our lives are filled with responsibility and duty. For Famous, my arrival in the evening holds two expectations. The first is that he will have an opportunity to go outside for exercise and relief. The second is that he will be fed. (No wonder I am greeted with such enthusiasm!)
In many ways this is my duty to fulfill these expectations. I do them out of love for Famous knowing his needs come first when I get home. Does he wait for me to feed myself and then give him leftovers? No! Does he thank me for what has become an expectation in our daily interactions? No. Is there a measure of gratitude for the companionship he gives me? Yes.
We must honor God with selfless service throughout the day, watching for moments when our service will be called forth. Only then can He become Lord of our hearts, and only then can He give us the life and rewards that He has in store.
Teach me to be your honored servant today, O Lord.