Indifference, Entitlement, & Gratitude

In the gospel passage that follows, it might seem like Jesus is a bit harsh to his apostles, apparently reprimanding them for expecting thanks or reward for their discipleship and service. I believe that the essence of what he is teaching them is that if we desire to be happy in the work we do, we need to be motivated from within rather than without. By this I mean, we find joy when we act/serve/labor with inner purpose, passion, and commitment... and a sort of indifference to whether our service is recognized or rewarded by others. If by contrast, we act/serve/labor motivated by desire for praise, recognition or reward, or even more problematically, if we live with a sense of expectancy and entitlement, we set ourselves up for disappointment. The paradox of course is that for as helpful as it is to act/serve/labor with a sort of indifferent freedom from the need for recognition, it is at the same time a real virtue to be able to express gratitude and praise of others. Does this make sense?

Lk 17:7-10

Jesus said to the Apostles:
“Who among you would say to your servant
who has just come in from plowing or tending sheep in the field,
‘Come here immediately and take your place at table’?
Would he not rather say to him,
‘Prepare something for me to eat.
Put on your apron and wait on me while I eat and drink.
You may eat and drink when I am finished’?
Is he grateful to that servant because he did what was commanded?
So should it be with you.
When you have done all you have been commanded, say,
‘We are unprofitable servants;
we have done what we were obliged to do.’”