"He who treats as equals those who are far below him in strength really makes them a gift of the quality of human beings, of which fate has deprived them. As far as it is possible for a creature, he reproduces the original generosity of the Creator with regard to them. This is the most Christian of virtues," writes Simone Weil, in her book "Waiting on God".

This is precisely what Jesus says in the Gospel reading today. His account of the relationship between master and servant tells not only of the duties of service but, more importantly, of the unjust expectations of special privileges and of preferential treatment.

In estimating one's self-worth, balance is needed. To compare oneself only with those lower than one is unbalanced and over-glorifies one's worth. The whole reality includes God and one's relationship to Him. In carrying out one's Christian duties, pride may produce expectations of special rewards. However, true Christian service is based on a humble awareness that there is nothing extraordinary in what one does. One merely replicates the generosity of God to his creatures, and one is merely His servant. This should be written on every Christian heart.

In the finest passage of the Book of Wisdom (3:1-9) the writer tells us that faithfulness to God assures people that even death cannot harm them.

In summary, as Christians, we have a duty to serve God, without any expectation of exalted rewards in this life, but the faithful who trust in Him are in His hands(3:1,9)and "great will their blessings be" (3:5)