A householder would stay awake if he knew when the thief was coming. Jesus says the same of us: no one knows the hour of the Son of Man. Meanwhile we are given a house, time and gifts to look after. Everything received is a task of love.
Lord, I do not know the hour,
but I know the sound of your step.
You come on ordinary Tuesdays,
in people and in tasks I did not choose.
Everything I handle was lent to me:
a home, a name, a few talents, a little time.
Let me guard them like a faithful steward.
Nothing is mine; all is gift.
When I think the master is late,
I grow careless and I numb myself.
Call me back to a sober, steady heart.
Be the measure of my days.
Jesus, you ask much of those given much,
not to crush us but to teach us to love.
Make us stewards who are fair and gentle
toward the smallest in the household.
Holy Spirit, keep faithfulness burning in us.
Forgive what we have forgotten.
When you arrive, find us at our post.
Amen.
Explanation
In the Gospel of Luke (12:39-48), Jesus says a householder would keep watch if he knew when the thief was coming, and he tells his disciples to be ready, for the Son of Man comes at an hour they do not expect. Peter asks whether the parable is meant for all. Jesus speaks of the faithful and wise steward whom the master finds at work, and of the servant who abuses the master’s delay. He concludes: much will be demanded of the one to whom much was given, and more will be asked of the one entrusted with more.
Practical Applications for Daily Life
- Name your gifts: Write down three talents you have received and how to serve with them.
- Be faithful in small things: Do one ordinary task well today, without hurrying through it.
- Stop postponing: Face today the thing you keep putting off because there is still time.
- Care for those entrusted to you: Give real attention to someone you are responsible for.
- Account for your day calmly: This evening review the day before God, without fear or excuses.
Questions for Personal or Group Reflection
- Which gifts am I not yet putting to use?
- Do I live as if the Lord were delayed?
- Who has been placed in my care?
- How do I treat those who depend on me?
- Can I give an account of my days with trust?