“Freed from sin, you have become slaves of righteousness.” These are the words in today’s first reading from St. Paul to the Romans. No longer bound by sin, we are free. However, this freedom comes from being bound to do what’s right, hence, we are “slaves” to righteousness.
The servant in Jesus’ parable is one of these “slaves to righteousness” because he knows the master’s will. But although he is bound by doing what is right, he disobeys and willingly chooses to return to sin. As we see, justice is served at the master’s return.
Indeed, we believe in a God of mercy. But we also believe in a generous God that gives abundantly. Much will be required of us who are aware of the abundance that the Lord gives us. May we always count on his grace—gift freely given and freely received—to act with righteousness.