Exhortation to be Vigilant

Today's Reflections

                                                                                   

 

Exhortation to be Vigilant

Lk 21:34-36

[Jesus said to his disciples,] ³⁴“Beware that your hearts do not become drowsy from carousing and drunkenness and the anxieties of daily life, and that day catch you by surprise ³⁵like a trap. For that day will assault everyone who lives on the face of the earth. ³⁶Be vigilant at all times and pray that you have the strength to escape the tribulations that are imminent and to stand before the Son of Man.”

BE VIGILANT AT ALL TIMES AND PRAY. Jesus’ exhortation brings the liturgical year to a close. It prepares us both for the coming of Christ in Advent and for the Parousia or second coming at the end of time.

Jesus enjoins his disciples to be vigilant and to pray that their faith may withstand the coming trials. He warns against being led astray by passing pleasures that can make them lose sight of the enduring values of the kingdom. At the same time, being overly worried about their daily needs may lead them to doubt God’s providence, generosity, and love.

The nearness of the kingdom and the suddenness of the last day (cf v 34) demand vigilance. The disciples need to be on guard, in active waiting, attending responsively to their work. And the prayer that Jesus recommends is trusting and loving expectation of the God who is about to come.

Jesus will voice the same exhortation to watch and pray at the Mount of Olives: “Why are you sleeping? Get up and pray that you may not undergo the test” (Lk 22:46). Those who pray, shun temptation, carry their cross, and follow Jesus will enjoy eternal life.

“The one who gives this testimony says,

‘Yes, I am coming soon.’ Amen! Come, Lord Jesus!” (Rv 22:20).