Posted by The WORD in other words (2006) by Father Randy Flores SVD – Divine Word Seminary of Tagaytay
Thursday 21st Week in Ordinary Time
Jesus tells us that “the Lord will come like a thief in the night” (1 Thessalonians 5:2). In His time, most homes were built of mud bricks, so thieves literally dug through the walls to break in. Thievery was common, worsened by Roman occupation and economic hardship.
This parable does not exalt thievery but uses it as a vivid image. Just as a householder expects the thief at night, so the early Christians were reminded that the Parousia—the Lord’s second coming—was certain, even if delayed. Some mocked the believers for waiting, while others began losing hope. Yet Jesus assures: the Son of Man will return.
Jesus commands: “Watch!” In Greek, the word is gregoreite, meaning “keep awake.” This is not passive waiting but active vigilance.
What is active watching? The Gospel provides hints:
- Sharing necessities — food and care for those in need (Matthew 24:45).
- Respecting dignity — treating others with justice and compassion (Matthew 24:49).
- Living simply — resisting greed and excess even amid hardship (Matthew 24:49).
This active vigilance is further explained in the parable of the sheep and goats: “Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me” (Matthew 25:40).
The certainty of the Lord’s return is not meant to paralyze us but to inspire us. Hope in Christ’s coming impels Christians to live in justice and charity, to keep awake by serving others, and to prepare hearts for the Kingdom.
“Blessed is that servant whom his master finds doing so when he comes” (Matthew 24:46).
The Gospel challenges us: Are we awake? Are we living with vigilance, justice, and charity? The Lord’s coming may be sudden, but it is certain. Let us live each day as faithful servants, ready to welcome Him when He comes.
