Gospel
Luke 17:5-10
5 The apostles said to the Lord, “Increase our faith.” 6 The Lord replied, “If you have faith the size of a mustard seed, you would say to this mulberry tree, ‘Be uprooted and planted in the sea,’ and it would obey you. 7 “Who among you would say to your servant who has just come in from plowing or tending sheep in the field, ‘Come here immediately and take your place at table’? 8 Would he not rather say to him, ‘Prepare something for me to eat. Put on your apron and wait on me while I eat and drink. You may eat and drink when I am finished’? 9 Is he grateful to that servant because he did what was commanded? 10 So should it be with you. When you have done all you have been commanded, say, ‘We are unprofitable servants; we have done what we were obliged to do.’”
Historical Background
Jesus is traveling through Galilee toward Jerusalem, teaching His disciples about the cost of discipleship. The apostles, who have just heard Jesus speak about forgiveness (Luke 17:1–4), now ask Him to “increase our faith.”
The image of the mustard seed was familiar—it was proverbially tiny but known to grow into a large plant. The servant imagery reflects the Greco-Roman household structure, where servants were expected to work without reward or recognition.
Theological Context
Jesus emphasizes that even a small amount of genuine faith can accomplish the impossible—not because of the believer’s power, but because of God’s.
The parable of the servant teaches that obedience to God is not about earning favor but fulfilling duty. It’s a call to serve without entitlement. The phrase “We are unworthy servants” underscores that our relationship with God is based on grace, not performance.
Learning Lessons
Faith is not measured by size but by sincerity: A mustard seed-sized faith, when rooted in God, is powerful.
True discipleship includes humble service: We serve not for applause but because it is our calling. Obedience is not optional: Following Jesus means doing what He commands—even when it’s hard or unnoticed.
God owes us nothing yet gives us everything: Our posture should be gratitude, not entitlement.
“Mustard Seed and Apron”
Lord, I asked for faith to rise,
You spoke of seeds, not mountain size.
A mustard grain, so small, so slight—
Yet moves the earth with heaven’s might.
You told of servants, worn and spent,
Who labor long without lament.
No throne, no feast, no grand applause—
Just quiet hearts that heed Your cause.
So teach me, Lord, to serve unseen,
To wear the apron, not the crown.
To trust Your will in fields between,
And sow my faith where grace is found.
Lord Jesus,
You see my heart and hear my cry: “Increase my faith.” Not for signs or wonders, but for strength to obey. Teach me to trust You with mustard seed faith— To believe even when I cannot see, to serve even when I am weary, to love without seeking reward.
Make me a faithful servant, content to do what You command, joyful in the hidden places, grateful for Your grace alone. Let my life echo Your humility, and my heart reflect Your mercy. In Your name I pray,
Amen.
Pericope:
V: The Journey to Jerusalem: Luke's Travel Narrative
SAYING OF FAITH / ATTITUDE OF A SERVANT
Luke 17:5-6 / 7-10
Gospel Acclamation
The word of the Lord remains forever. This is the word that has been proclaimed to you.
Reflection Source:
Conversation with Copilot
