Day 048: Servants of Faith

"Let a man so consider us, as servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God.  Moreover it is required in stewards that one be found faithful."  1 Corinthians 4:1-2

 I know that I definitely fall short as a Christian to fulfill my duties.

These two verses make me think about going to a fancy restaurant.  Usually, I'll be dressed up so much, in at least church clothes, in order not to stick out of the rest, particularly the waiters, who are in crisp, white shirts and slacks.  In fact, it is usually how the host and the waiters are dressed that determine the attire of the restaurant.  I expect good food when I go to a restaurant with people in such attire.  When I look at the menu, there are many things that I have never heard of, so I decide to ask the waiter.  However, when I ask, the waiter doesn't really know what the foods are, and he even admits to hating the restaurant.

How does that even make sense?  Why would such a waiter be allowed to work at that restaurant?  That's where the notion of a faithful steward comes in.  We are walking all over the earth, whether with a bible in hand, a cross tied around our neck, or a bible verse inked onto our arms, representing Christ.  How will we live up to what we are showing around?  Are we sure that we have tasted and seen that the Lord is good?  Are we sure that we are not ashamed of the Gospel because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes?

The people we meet along the way will be asking us questions about our faith, especially if we deem ourselves Christians.  Is this meant to scare anybody away?  Not at all, for we have the ability to learn more because of our faith in Christ.  However, we need to be sure to serve faithfully.  We need to be ready to spread the good news when the occasion arises.  We also need to be ready to serve in all the ways that Jesus has taught us to at all times.

Our redemption is one where Jesus finds us, cleans us, and then sends us on our way, our new way, to expand the community, the church, the body of the faithful, the body of Christ.  

When we received ashes on Ash Wednesday, we showed the world that we are ready to suffer with Christ.  The season of Lent is the time for us to follow up on our statement.  We need to read the bible, pray, and turn away from our old selves so that we can follow Jesus.  We need to tend to the house that Jesus has built up.  We need to be faithful stewards of the Gospel.