City Life Starter

Written by Aisha Darwesh.

The Word

⁴¹ Peter said, “Lord, are you telling this parable for us or for all?” ⁴² And the Lord said, “Who then is the faithful and wise manager, whom his master will set over his household, to give them their portion of food at the proper time? ⁴³ Blessed is that servant whom his master will find so doing when he comes. ⁴⁴ Truly, I say to you, he will set him over all his possessions. ⁴⁵ But if that servant says to himself, ‘My master is delayed in coming,’ and begins to beat the male and female servants, and to eat and drink and get drunk, ⁴⁶ the master of that servant will come on a day when he does not expect him and at an hour he does not know, and will cut him in pieces and put him with the unfaithful. ⁴⁷ And that servant who knew his master’s will but did not get ready or act according to his will, will receive a severe beating. ⁴⁸ But the one who did not know, and did what deserved a beating, will receive a light beating. Everyone to whom much was given, of him much will be required, and from him to whom they entrusted much, they will demand the more.

-Luke 12:41-48 ESV

^4-5 Make a careful exploration of who you are and the work you have been given, and then sink yourself into that. Don’t be impressed with yourself. Don’t compare yourself with others. Each of you must take responsibility for doing the creative best you can with your own life.

-Galatians 6:4-5 MSG

Aisha’s Analysis

Today’s verses teach us to evaluate how we are stewarding the time and responsibility God has given each of us. This shows us that our choices can change outcomes. 

In today’s passage from Luke, Jesus illustrates two very different outcomes that stem from a servant’s attitude and behavior: 1) A servant who acts in accordance with his master’s will and values; and 2) A servant who abuses his power, indulges his appetite, and mistreats the people he was supposed to lead in his master’s absence. Jesus goes on to say the punishment for wrongdoing is more severe to those who know better. 

This is a very sobering message that behooves us to check our hearts when it comes to being faithful with our callings in Christ. While this illustration of Jesus may seem severe and harsh, it’s actually a merciful admonition to warn us and guide our path forward. 

Much like a guardrail on the side of a steep cliff or a “check engine” light on a car, this message is a warning to those who are getting dangerously close to the brink of ruin. Further, this shows us the power of choice when it comes to being promoted or punished. Being faithful isn’t about being perfect; it’s about consistently showing up with integrity to what God is calling you to right now. Attitude matters. Choices matter. What you believe matters. These are the things that drive our behavior and determine the quality of life we get to experience.

Application

Victor Frankl, a man who survived the cruelty of concentration camps, said: 

“Forces beyond your control can take away everything you possess except one thing, your freedom to choose how you will respond to the situation.”

-Victor Frankl

Whatever situation you may find yourself in today, how will you respond? Will you respond in faith or fear? Obedience to God or doing what you think is right in your own eyes? What will it be? 

Honestly evaluate where your heart is at today when it comes to honoring God and carrying out His ways practically in your life. How are you showing up in life? Are you on a constructive path geared towards advancing God’s Kingdom or are you on a destructive path headed to your own ruin? 

Prayer

Father God, if You should tarry, I pray that You would find me faithful–fully devoted to Your will and Your ways. You are worthy of a life completely surrendered to You. In Jesus’ name, amen.