Verses 35-37 After his death, resurrection on earth, and later ascension to heaven, Jesus will return for us one day (this is called his “second coming” to earth). Aware and expecting the day, we should remain ready for when we will enjoy all the treasures we have laid up in heaven. As we wait, we should serve and be ready to do His will. Waiting and working at the same time with a continual eye on Jesus’ coming.
Jesus compares his disciples to servants waiting for their masters to return, alert and ready to receive him. The light of Jesus in us should shine in this dark world while we wait. Sharing our testimony of how Jesus saved us is one way we keep the light shining. Living with a sense of expectancy, holding precious every phone call, visit, or hug is how we wait on Jesus.
Ready For Action
Verse 38-40 When Jesus returns, He will show up in the “night” when many resign themselves from watching for him. When we fall asleep, we expect very little to happen. We surrender to our bed and close our eyes with no anticipation of anything other than deep sleep. And much like this, when Jesus returns, he will come when we least expect the disruption. When Jesus returns, it will feel like He has deferred His return for too long. We will feel like giving up or worse, our hope may already be gone.
This is a reminder to never give up on Jesus’ promises because the cross proves He never gave up on you and me. The Bible is our notice of His coming. We should take care of our souls, expecting and living like we believe our end is near. It will be a surprise when our time is up, but blessed are those who have long awaited His return and found ready, listening for his approach.
To The Faithful & Wise
Verses 41-44 Peter wanted to know if this teaching was for the Twelve only or for the entire crowd. Jesus clarifies that this is for anyone who would receive and apply it. Ministers and stewards (you and me) of the Word. The faithful servant gets a task, performs it, and receives blessings.
Blessed is the one who is not idle or indulgent in a life of ease.
Our reward in heaven is far greater than the challenges we encounter while performing the tasks and services.
Blessed is the one who perseveres through difficulties. The Holy Spirit’s mercy empowers us to be found faithful in the duties and demands placed on us. Though faithful believers will receive greater responsibility, they will also gain further rewards at the return of Christ.
To Whom Much Is Given
Verses 45-48 On the flip side, there is judgment awaiting the individual who is not expecting his master to come back, who assumes there is still time before His return. Judgment is based on the level of a believer’s or unbeliever’s knowledge of God’s Word or will. And their responsibility with it. Leaders in the church, in the home, and in the community will receive greater judgment than those who didn’t have that level of responsibility.
It is unfortunate and foolish for us if we know of our duties and are unfaithful to do them. Duties as a believer, a parent, a child, a neighbor, a friend, an employee, etc. We should see Jesus’ delay in coming back as his patience with us to get right. This is his mercy waiting on us to return to Him before He returns to us. But we often misinterpret that delay as an excuse to give in to the things that make us feel good and secure right now.
The unwise servant fought with the other servants and began “eating, drinking, and getting drunk”. (v.45)
Ignorance Is Not Bliss
Those who are ignorant of God’s Word might not have had as many opportunities to hear it or learn it, but that isn’t an excuse for being neglectful and careless. They still face punishment, but ignorance lessens the judgment. Those who put Jesus to death on the cross is one example of ignorance. They didn’t know who He really was.
When we know God’s Word, we know God’s will. Punishment awaits those who choose their own will or way. In His Justice, God will inflict more punishment on this person for abusing the knowledge God gave him. A knowledge that maybe someone else would have at least made better use of. Those who know God’s Word, know God’s Will, and obedience is required. Those who handle children, a spouse, finances, and leadership, also are required to have great faithfulness, uprightness, and integrity while caring for it.
Prayer
Jesus, we praise you for the wisdom of your Will through your Word. Thank you for teaching my heart the way to live a life of deep satisfaction in you. A life of obedience to You overflows with riches and good things in my soul. Though I live in this world, my heart and thoughts live waiting for you. Help me remain faithful in our duty to carry out your good works on this earth while I wait in expectation of you, Jesus. Help me remain mindful of Your Word in all the appointments you have placed me in, as a child, a parent, a sibling, a spouse, a neighbor, an employee, and a part of the Body.
In everything that I do, help me Holy Spirit, keep a constant eye on You, a constant ear open to you. Help me share my testimony, share your gospel, Jesus, and live expectantly for your return. Like I believe the day of the Lord is here! I don’t want to be surprised or live carelessly like I don’t believe; have mercy on me, Jesus. I don’t want to be caught idle or living a life of ease. Thank you, Jesus, that your delay is your patience with me. Help me persevere through life’s difficulties and equip me with your mercy to be faithful till the end, Jesus. In Jesus’ name, Amen.