Living in Readiness: The Call to Faithful Stewardship
Reflection on Luke 12:32–48
In today’s Gospel, Jesus speaks powerful words to His disciples, reminding them — and us — of the need to live with vigilant hearts, always prepared for the coming of the Lord.
"Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has been pleased to give you the kingdom."
What a comforting beginning. Jesus, knowing the worries that burden the human heart, starts with reassurance. We are His “little flock,” and the Father delights in giving us His kingdom. This is not a distant reward reserved for the end of life — it's a present reality for those who live in communion with God.
But after this comforting promise comes a serious exhortation:
"Be dressed for action and have your lamps lit…"
This is the image of readiness. In biblical times, a servant would gird their loins, tighten their garments around the waist, and keep their lamp burning so they could respond at any moment to the master's return. Jesus uses this image to call us to spiritual alertness.
It’s easy to become spiritually sleepy. We can go through the motions of faith — Sunday Mass, occasional prayers — but still be far from the watchful attitude Jesus asks of us. He warns us not to be like the servant who says, “My master is delayed,” and begins to beat the other servants and indulge in selfish living. This servant isn't just lazy; he’s forgotten his role. He’s misused the trust given to him.
We are all stewards — of our time, our gifts, our responsibilities, and especially our relationships. Whether we are parents, students, employees, priests, or parish volunteers, we are given a part in the Kingdom. And Jesus says something striking here: “Much will be required of the person entrusted with much.”
That can be a sobering line, but it’s not meant to frighten. It’s meant to awaken. If God has gifted you with abilities, resources, or influence — and He has — then you are invited to use them with care, with love, and with purpose. You are not just living for yourself. You are living for Christ, and for the people He has placed in your life.
This Gospel is ultimately about faithful presence — being present to God, ready for His coming, and faithful in the tasks and relationships entrusted to us. Jesus does not want us to live in anxiety, always looking over our shoulder, but in hopeful expectation, hearts aflame with love, and hands ready for service.
Key Takeaway:
To be ready for the Lord’s coming means to live each day as faithful stewards — alert, loving, and generous — knowing that the Kingdom has already been entrusted to us, and that our true treasure lies in living for Him.
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