I was reading the account of David’s interactions, first, with Barzillai the Gileadite, then, with the troops of Israel and Judah (2 Samuel 19.31-43). In this account we observe a contrast of attitudes concerning what has been labelled “entitlement.” Many times we hear (maybe have used it ourselves) the phrase “what about me?” expressing a person’s insistence that, for whatever reason, one is entitled to a benefit and that it should be given.
The troops of Judah and Israel provide an example of this attitude. It seems the issue had to do with who had the right to king David’s recognition and the honor of accompanying the king to be restored in Jerusalem. Each side had their own argument for their case, and each side demanded this benefit to which they felt entitled.
Then there is Barzillai the Gileadite. When the king wanted to honor him, he did not deem it necessary. His joy was simply the privilege to have served David. In his old age, he did not want to become a burden to the king. Even when the king insisted, Barzillai was happy to let someone else reap the benefits of his service.
“What about me?” is often a demand for recognition and privilege. We often use these words as a complaint when we feel left out or deprived of something. This misdirected attitude is often exposed in the context of competitiveness when others are deemed encroaching on one’s entitlement.
But what if “what about me?” is raised to a higher level—to become an expression of deep and passionate desire to serve in humility? That is, not so much a demand for the recognition of being chosen to serve, but more an indication of one’s willfulness and passion to be able to serve, yet in full submission to the Lord’s will.
The expression may sound the same on the outside. But what really matters is what happens in the inside, the attitude that comes with the words. What am I really seeking? The opportunity to be counted and recognized as one who serves? Or simply the opportunity to serve under the direction and will of the one served? Service is what matters most, recognition is only a fringe benefit and of less value than actual service.
Concerning this authentic servant attitude, Jesus tells a parable that ends: “Will [the master] thank the servant because he did what he was told to do? So you also, when you have done everything you were told to do, should say, ‘We are unworthy servants; we have only done our duty’” (Luke 17.9–10 NIV).
—Keith Y. Jainga