“Blessed are those servants whom the master finds vigilant on his arrival.” Lk 12:35
The early Christians waited in faith: believing, trusting, preparing, and expecting the return of our Lord Jesus to be immediate. They sold all they had, shared their worldly goods, remained faithful despite violent persecution, and worked to spread the Good News of salvation throughout the world.
Those early Christians persevered in faith and succeeded in bringing the teachings of Christ to the whole world, becoming the One, Holy, Catholic, and Apostolic Church. But 2000 years later, as we still await the return of the Lord, it seems the faith of some has faltered. We see increasing violence, immoral behavior, and widespread abandonment of faith. There are many stewards, even some in positions of authority within the Church itself, that have lost their faith or – worst of all – abused those placed under their care.
Jesus tells a story in today’s reading that could have been written expressly for our times. His warning should place fear into the hearts of any who have abused their authority as stewards of God’s faithful people. Those who become arrogant as they await the return of their master, taking advantage of their position over the master’s household and mistreating those left in their care, will face the most severe punishment for their crimes.
Jesus delays His return, perhaps to give us more time to turn to His mercy, to repent and make reparation for our sins, and to allow more healing to take place. We must not waste that divine opportunity or forget that our time is limited. Be vigilant. Jesus, the Light of the world, stands ready to return at any moment. Even now, if we listen closely, we can hear Him knocking – if we watch attentively, we can discern a glimmer of His eternal light behind the veil. He is waiting for each of us to turn to Him in faith, to repent of our own particular sins, to extend a hand to the lost and wounded and bring them close to Him.
Don’t lose heart, don’t lose faith: the Lord will return. Will you be keeping vigil, ready to open the door, draw aside the veil, and gaze upon the Face of the Master when He comes?
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