Zechariah 3:1-10
Psalms 49, 53, 119:49-72
Revelations 4:1-8
Matthew 24:45-51
Matthew 24:45-51
I have a precious picture of my then very young granddaughter “reading” to our incredibly patient Lab. It is one of those pictures that, at best, can really only accomplish bringing back the tenderness of the moment to the one who witnessed it to begin with. She did not know or care that anyone else was watching - her focus was on bringing a moment of pleasure to her friend Brandy.
Perhaps within that innocent childhood memory is a lesson we can apply to the very pointed readings from today, and in particular, the Gospel. In my NIV version of the Gospel of Matthew, the title for this passage of Chapter 24 is “The Day and Hour Unknown." It touches on that eternal question about no one - not even the Son - knowing the Will of the Father… but I digress - that is for someone else to cover. For this meditation, our concern is verses 45-51, about being "caught" doing the right thing. Jesus is responding to the disciples' questions about the signs they (and we) should look for that will signal the end of days. Jesus uses the example of a “faithful and wise servant” who had best be looking after his household responsibilities (or using his gifts and talents for the good or the Kingdom?); … "It will be good for that servant whose master finds him doing so when he returns."
Are we using our gifts and talents in a manner that glorifies God, especially in our academic or professional lives? Would our associates and peers recognize us as Christians? Are we committed to the joy of bringing joy and happiness to those the Lord brings in our path? And if He comes today … will we be ready?
Peace!
Vicki Cravens