The Character of Unfaithful Servant

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season:  Twenty First Week :  Thursday*

*Gospel : Mt 24:42-51*

*First Reading : 1 Thes 3:7-13*

*Responsorial Psalm : 90:3-5a, 12-13, 14 and 17*

*The Character of Unfaithful Servant*

*1) Doubt or Disregard of the Master’s Return*

*“My master is delayed...”*

The servant loses urgency and begins to live as if the Master is not coming back. 

This reflects a heart of unbelief and complacency.

When we stop living in light of Christ’s return, we drift into self-serving or careless living. 

Do we truly believe Jesus could return at any moment?

*2) Abuse of Power*

*“...begins to beat his fellow servants...”*

Instead of caring for others, this servant uses authority to harm or control. 

It's a picture of spiritual abuse, pride, or manipulation — often by those in leadership.

Unfaithfulness shows when we hurt others instead of serve them. 

Are we using our position to build up or tear down?

*3) Worldly Indulgence*

*“...eats and drinks with drunkards.”*

Rather than being about literal drinking, this symbolizes joining in with worldly excess, distraction, and sinful indulgence. 

The servant chooses pleasure and comfort over obedience and holiness.

Are we distracted by entertainment, success, or pleasure in ways that dull our alertness to God’s will?

*4) Surprise Judgment*

*“The master... will come on a day he does not expect.”*

Because he lives in unbelief, the unfaithful servant is caught off guard by the Master’s return. 

This is a warning that judgment is certain, even if it feels delayed.

God's timing may be unexpected, but it's never unjust. 

Are we prepared to give an account of our lives — at any moment?

*5)  Severe Consequences*

*“...cut him in pieces and put him with the hypocrites...”*

This graphic language reflects God's serious judgment on hypocrisy and wickedness. 

The unfaithful servant is grouped not with fellow believers but with those who pretended to serve God but lived for themselves.

God sees through appearances. 

Faithfulness isn’t about looking good outwardly but living in truth, love, and obedience.

*6) Two Ways*

This passage is not meant to scare us into perfection but to awaken us into faithfulness. 

The passage contrasts two ways to live while waiting for Christ:

*A) One trusts, serves, and stays alert.*

*B) The other doubts, indulges, and drifts.*

We are each given responsibilities, relationships, and opportunities to reflect Christ — the question is: Are we living like He’s coming back?

*Think about it*

*God bless you and your family. Praying for you and your dear ones*

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*