27 Stay awake for Christ

August 27

Gospel

Matthew 24:42-51

He is coming at an hour you do not expect

Jesus said to his disciples: ‘Stay awake, because you do not know the day when your master is coming. You may be quite sure of this, that if the householder had known at what time of the night the burglar would come, he would have stayed awake and would not have allowed anyone to break through the wall of his house. Therefore, you too must stand ready because the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect.

‘What sort of servant, then, is faithful and wise enough for the master to place him over his household to give them their food at the proper time? Happy that servant if his master’s arrival finds him at this employment. I tell you solemnly, he will place him over everything he owns. But as for the dishonest servant who says to himself, “My master is taking his time,” and sets about beating his fellow servants and eating and drinking with drunkards, his master will come on a day he does not expect and at an hour he does not know. The master will cut him off and send him to the same fate as the hypocrites, where there will be weeping and grinding of teeth.’

Short Reflection

In today’s Gospel, Jesus calls us to stay awake and be ready, because we do not know when the Lord will come. This readiness is not meant to make us afraid, but to help us live faithfully each day. A wise servant continues doing what is right even when the master is not seen. In the same way, we are invited to remain faithful in our responsibilities, treat others with love, and live with a sincere heart. Every day is an opportunity to prepare ourselves for the Lord through prayer, kindness, and obedience.

Reflection Question

Am I living each day faithfully, as if the Lord could come at any moment?

Short Prayer

Lord Jesus, help me to stay awake in faith and be ready for Your coming. Teach me to be faithful in my duties, loving toward others, and sincere in my heart. May I live each day in a way that is pleasing to You. Amen.

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