Be alert and watch, for you don’t know when the time will come. When a man goes abroad and leaves his home, he puts his servants in charge, giving to each one some responsibility; and he orders the doorkeeper to stay awake. So stay awake, for you don’t know when the Lord of the house will come, in the evening or at midnight, when the cock crows or before dawn. If he comes suddenly, do not let him catch you asleep.
And what I say to you, I say to all: Stay awake!”
REFLECTION
Reading: The gospel speaks of being alert and watchful akin to servants charged by the master going abroad to do their responsibility, and like the doorkeeper to be vigilant lest he catches them slacking in their responsibilities or asleep when he returns. This vigilance is counseled to all who are waiting for the coming of the Lord.
Reflection: Vigilance makes us ready for anything. We will not be caught surprised and unaware. This is the admonition of the Lord to all His followers. In this world there are many temptations to slacken or even relax our principles drawn from the gospel. So many philosophies of life compete with the teachings of the Lord. They are seductive, very tempting and pleasing to our senses. It is only with the greatest vigilance that we can tear ourselves away sometimes from their hypnotic spell. We have to keep our gaze firmly on the Lord who will come. Meanwhile, we prepare. May the Lord see us awake when He comes again in His glory.
Response: Have I been vigilant in my work? Am I mindful and aware of what I do? This can be seen in the quality of my work output. Perhaps today, I will try to be more aware and mindful with what I do, and put heart and soul into it, no matter how small my work seem. Those who will benefit will find it delightful.
