More on readiness

Luke 12 : 39 - 49

.....the Son of man is coming at an unexpected hour

"Be ready" we are reminded again. "Be ready" like servants waiting for their master to return from a wedding banquet. Wise and faithful servants are alert for their master. They do not take for granted their duty and become lazy and lax.

What kind of waiting is called for here? It is not a waiting that makes us so careless that we would be tempted to do our own thing to fill the time. It is not so passive either that we remain inert. It is an expectant waiting that is called for. Like the servants, we know Who to look out for. We know what is to be done while waiting. We have a call that is unique to us. If we are faithful to that call, our Master will be pleased when he comes.

I was praying about 'call' recently. I discovered that the specific way each person lives out a call would be very unique to him/her. It cannot be dictated by others, or by church programs that are always needing participants. Jesus wants us to be good stewards of what he has given us - the talents, gifts and concrete circumstances of our lives. I have heard several possible 'calls' - and yet sometimes, much discernment is needed. Am I hearing the Lord or just choosing what I wish to do? Of course these are not bad things - like the irresponsible stewards, but they may distract me from what the Lord wishes. The idea is readiness - and a discerning heart to focus on the Lord's call.

"Be ready for the Lord's coming", we are told. Be faithful and wise in carrying out the tasks that have been entrusted. Then when the Lord returns, he will gratefully reward the steward.