21stWeek in Ord. Time, Thursday – 27thAugust 2020 — Gospel: Mt 24,42-51
Test for dutifulness
What prompts Jesus to give this discourse is the question raised by his disciples regarding the destruction of the temple and the end of the age, “When will this happen?” (Mt 24,3). Instead of a direct answer, through illustration by brief parables, Jesus teaches about alertness, faithfulness and service. These are the duties required of every disciple of Jesus. Since we do not know when these things will happen, the followers must keep awake and mind their own business. It is a test of our faith that we do not know when Jesus will return. The parable of the faithful and the wicked slaves contrasts the one who remains ready and the one who is caught unprepared. The faithful servant is promoted and put in charge of all his master’s possessions, because he believed that his master will return at any time. He expected his master’s return in patience and faithfulness. In contrast, the wicked slave has hardened his heart through wicked reasoning and questioning. His reasoning though seems justified, expresses his disbelief, disobedience and unaccountability. When his master unexpectedly returns and finds him recklessly disregarding the tasks, the wicked salve is subjected to severe judgment. This vivid imagery of Jesus’ teaching urges his disciples to live in light of the future. Though the time of the Lord’s coming is unknowable, the fact of his glorious return is certain. Disciples must not take up an indifferent way of life and justify their wicked reasoning. They must always be about their master’s business, doing the work of the kingdom, vigilantly awaiting his coming in glory.
