The Gospel we heard at mass this past weekend should serve as an awakening for all of us. It is a reminder to be vigilant and live our faith daily. Jesus tells us, “you also must be prepared, for at an hour you do not expect, the Son of Man will come” (Luke 12:40). Are we actively working to grow in our relationship with Jesus and deepening our faith or are we being complacent and putting off what we know we need to do?
Our faith is not something we can put off for a later time. It is not something we can just decide to pick up when we’re older, less busy, or when we’re facing hardship and uncertainty in our lives. Our faith needs to be fully lived each and every day, here and now, in each present moment. So often, faith gets put on the back burner. But Jesus never puts us on the back burner, so why would we do that to Him? Are we remaining vigilant and prepared?
When I take time to reflect on this in my own life, I recognize just how far I am from being fully the person God created me to be. Holiness often seems so unobtainable. If Jesus came now at this exact moment, would I be ready? In our weaknesses, sin, and human condition, we will never be exactly where we should be, but are we putting in effort and commitment? Are we acknowledging that we cannot do it on our own and asking Jesus to lead us and work in our lives?
If we are doing the things we know we need to do to deepen our faith, grow closer to Jesus, and try to grow in holiness, we are on the right path. If we are not doing these things, we become complacent, staying the same. And when complacency sets in, the worldly distractions take over. And when worldly distractions take over, we cannot be watchful, vigilant, and prepared. This Gospel passage about the vigilant and faithful servants reminds us that our actions have consequences and our choices either bring us closer to God or further from Him. Are we living like the faithful and vigilant servants or the unfaithful and ignorant servants?
Jesus, thank you for loving us and for teaching us the way. You alone can give us the ultimate fulfillment and happiness. Help us to be vigilant and watchful, so that we are always prepared and ready to meet you, not just at the end of our lives, but in each moment that you come to us. Open our eyes to see you in each day. Help us to keep our focus on you today and always. Amen.
Faith and The Good Stuff 