Happy Servant

Blessed is that servant whom his master, when he comes, will find so doing.”

Jesus is speaking about being ready for His return when He utters this statement. He was teaching His disciples about the end times and the importance of vigilance and faithfulness.
In a parable, Jesus describes the attitude and behaviour expected of His followers while they wait for His second coming. He compares His followers to servants who have been given responsibilities by their master (Jesus Himself). The “blessed” servant is the one who remains faithful and diligently carries out his duties, even when the master is away, not knowing when the master will return. As believers, we have the duty of fulfilling our God-given responsibilities, serving faithfully, and living righteously. According to the parable, the duty of the servant is clear:
“Who then is a faithful and wise servant, whom his master made ruler over his household, to give them food in due season? Blessed is that servant whom his master, when he comes, will find so doing. Assuredly, I say to you that he will make him ruler over all his goods.” Matt 24:45-47

The servant’s duty is to “give them food in due season,” taking care of the needs of the people. The servant must be found faithfully carrying out his responsibilities when the master returns. The phrase “in due season” or “at the proper time” suggests that this is not a one-time task but an ongoing responsibility.
It is reminding us that our duty is ongoing, constant, and relentless. Faithfulness is not a one-off moment of glory; it’s the daily grind of obedience, whether anyone sees it or not. God doesn’t just want servants who work when it’s easy—He demands those who remain steadfast through the trials, the mundane, and the silence, knowing full well that He is coming!
The “blessed” servant, who is found doing what he was entrusted with, is rewarded with even greater responsibility: “he will make him ruler over all his goods.” This is the answer to Peter’s question on reward that we discussed yesterday. The disciples, and us included, will rule with Christ -judge the angels (Matt 19:28-29,1 Cor 6:3)

In John 21:15-19, we find a practical application or a rehearsal of what Christ was saying here in Matthew. After His resurrection and before His ascension, Jesus appears to some of His disciples by the Sea of Galilee. The disciples, including Peter, had returned to fishing after the crucifixion and resurrection, perhaps unsure of what their next steps should be. Peter, having denied Jesus three times before His crucifixion, seems to have returned to his former occupation—fishing. After a miraculous catch of fish, Jesus prepares breakfast for the disciples on the shore and engages Peter in a deeply personal and restorative conversation. I don’t think Christ is against whatever profession we choose, but rather He values the honour and integrity of our commitment to our calling. As I often say, success is being faithful in what you are given to do, no matter what it is. Jesus left Peter in charge after Peter professed his faith and acknowledged who Christ was, but Peter, overwhelmed by his previous failure, returned to fishing when his master came back. It was a humbling moment when Peter had to say, “You know I meant to; you know I love you.“

We see the blessing, happiness, and delight that servant whom his master, when he comes, will find so doing.

In John 21:15, Jesus asks Peter, “Simon, son of John, do you love Me more than these?” (referring either to the other disciples or possibly to the fishing equipment and way of life). Peter responds, “Yes, Lord, You know that I love You.” Jesus says to him, “Feed My lambs.“Jesus again asks Peter, “Do you love Me?” Peter responds the same way, “Yes, Lord; You know that I love You.” Jesus then says, “Tend My sheep.” In John 21:16, Jesus asks Peter a third time, “Do you love Me?” This time, Peter is grieved because Jesus asks him three times, and he replies, “Lord, You know everything; You know that I love You.” Jesus responds, “Feed My sheep.” (John 21:17)

Let us continue here tomorrow. But what is our reflection today? Whatever God asks you to do, do it well, do it continually, do it for His glory, not for the praise of others, and do it with all your strength. Your reward is coming. Let this be clear: your calling is not a suggestion; it’s a divine commission. Whatever God has placed in your hands—do it well, do it continually, and do it with every ounce of strength you have. We are not living for the applause of men but for the approval of our King, who is coming quickly, and His reward is with Him. He says,

“And behold, I am coming quickly, and My reward is with Me, to give to every one according to his work.” Rev 22:12

The servant who is found “so doing” when his Master returns is the one who refuses to slack, compromise, or retreat from his God-given mission, no matter the delay, no matter the cost. Christ has left us with a clear command—to serve, to feed, to shepherd His people.