Fifth Sunday after Epiphany: Epistle, 1 Corinthians 9:16-27          

1 Corinthians 9:16-27

The apostle Paul wants to be a servant. He relishes the idea. And he does because of the One who holds his “bonds.” Christians have a King who is what someone has termed “a benevolent Dictator.” It is true. Paul writes in this text of serving at the pleasure of a God to Whom it is a joy to bow. Paul even includes here the pronouncement of a curse on himself if he doesn’t share the glorious good news of His Master’s triumph over sin, death, and the devil.

But Paul also considers himself a slave to all those he serves with this wondrous message: “For though I am free from all, I have made myself a servant to all, that I might win more of them” (1 Cor. 9:19). For Paul this dual servitude is no burden, but rather joy. It is actually true freedom. Love, grace, mercy, and salvation received is pure gift. But greatly diminished if it is not shared. Pleasant service, indeed.