Faithful Service While We Wait
Scripture: “Therefore, stay awake, for you do not know on what day your Lord is coming.” (Matthew 24.42, ESV)
MAIN POINT: Staying awake means faithful service in our daily vocations, not idle waiting for Christ’s return.
When Jesus tells us to stay awake, He doesn’t mean we should quit our jobs and stare at the sky. The parable immediately following our text makes this clear: the faithful servant continues providing for the household while the master is away. Staying awake looks like faithful service.
Whether you’re a parent caring for children, an employee serving your employer, a student pursuing your studies, or a retiree using your time and resources—this is where faithfulness happens. God has placed you in specific relationships and responsibilities. These are not distractions from spiritual life; they are the arena where spiritual life is lived.
Do your work today as one who knows the Master is returning, even though you don’t know when. Change that diaper, complete that project, study for that exam, visit that lonely neighbor—not grudgingly as if these tasks delay more important “spiritual” activities, but faithfully as acts of worship. The one who stays awake doesn’t abandon daily responsibilities; he fulfills them with renewed purpose and urgency. Every task becomes an opportunity to serve Christ by serving others. Every day becomes a gift to use wisely while we still have it.
Reflection: The most spiritual thing you can do today might be the most ordinary task before you. What specific responsibilities in your vocation have you been neglecting or resenting? How can you approach your daily work as faithful service to Christ?
Prayer: Lord Jesus, help me to see my daily work as service to You. Give me strength to fulfill my responsibilities faithfully while I wait for Your return. Let my ordinary tasks become acts of worship. In Your Name, Amen.
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