A watchful servant

Let your waist be girded and your lamps burning; and you yourselves be like men who wait for their master, when he will return from the wedding, that when he comes and knocks they may open to him immediately. Luke 12:35-36

In the biblical time, to "gird your waist" meant to be ready for work or travel. People would tuck their long robes into their belts to move quickly and without hindrance. When Jesus says to keep our "lamps burning," He refers to the need to be constantly alert, just as people in the past would keep lamps lit through the night to see clearly in the darkness. Jesus calls us to be spiritually watchful and always prepared. We don't know when Jesus will return, and we all have a limited amount of time on earth to do God's work. This is especially true for those entrusted with spiritual knowledge and abilities. There is a greater expectation to use these gifts wisely. Let's encourage each other to stay ready, to live fully for God, and to be watchful stewards of what He has given us.

Reflection:

How are you actively preparing your heart for service and keeping your faith vibrant in welcoming of Jesus' return?

Prayer and Declaration:
Abba Father, we come before You, ready for action, keeping our lamps burning with Your holy fire at all times. As we discern the signs of the times, grant us the wisdom to align our hearts with Yours so that we may be awake and stay watchful. May we not become entangled in the snares of worldly distractions but remain steadfast and faithful until the end. Holy Spirit, fan into flame our zeal, that we may not slacken but serve as vigilant watchmen, eager for our Master's return. Help us to live each day with joyful anticipation, so that we might one day hear, "Well done, good and faithful servant... enter into the joy of your Lord" (Matthew 25:23). In Jesus’ name, Amen.