Luke’s question sits oddly on contemporary ears: “Is he [i.e., the master] grateful to that servant because the servant did what was commanded?” (Lk 17:9) Some people these days may be accustomed (or think they are entitled) to prompt, silent, nearly invisible service; but those who are wise and kind are more likely to recognize and appreciate those who serve.

In the television show Undercover Boss, a top corporation executive goes undercover in a variety of low-level support jobs in his or her company—and every blessed one of them comes away from the experience with the realization that the real people who do these jobs often have a great attitude and willingness to work hard, yet are underpaid and, worse, undervalued, even though they are the face of the company.

Not good. Not good for workers’ morale. Not good for the company bottom line. Not good for human beings, period.

Unfortunately, religious organizations, including parishes, are not exempt from cavalier treatment of workers and staff. Parish musicians are frequently overworked, underpaid and undervalued. And volunteers—those without whom no liturgical ministry can survive—may be treated with disdain, or patronized, or dismissed, even though they are the face of the organization.

Not good. Not good for the morale of volunteers and paid staff alike. Not good for the parish collection, either. Not good for human beings, period.

In this day and age, taking anyone’s service for granted is incredibly foolish. We musicians already know (or should) that the volunteers we treat humanely will return, singing their hearts out in joyful service. They make our service possible. Make sure they know they’re appreciated; it will come back to you a hundredfold.

M.D. Ridge