Paul had left Titus behind in Crete to put some things in order. Titus was to teach sound doctrine. He was to instruct the older men and women to set an example by their temperate and reverent behaviour. The younger men and women would learn from them how to live a godly life. The good news was that the grace of God had brought salvation to all. This good news provided the motivation for holy living, which would be a witness to others.

In the Luke passage, Jesus spoke to His disciples about their obligation to be obedient. Just as a slave served his master, the disciples were to be obedient to their Lord. A slave would not be invited to dine with his master, nor would he be thanked for his service.

However, all disciples were to recognise that there was work to do and were expected to do it without any tangible recognition or reward. The reward was in knowing that they were doing the will of God.

So it is with us today. We are to serve God with a joyful heart.