“Let your lamps be burning… like men who are waiting for their master.” – Luke 12:35-36
A young couple, expecting their first child, kept a hospital bag packed and the car fuelled for months. They knew the due date, but not the hour. One night, long after midnight, the first contraction came. There was no panic, only a calm, joyful readiness. They were already awake, waiting for this moment, and everything was prepared for the journey.
This parable calls us to live in active, hopeful expectation of Christ’s return. The “burning lamps” symbolise faith alive through prayer, charity, and obedience, while “girded loins” speak of readiness for action. The world lulls us into spiritual drowsiness, as if the Master’s coming is far off. Yet the Christian life is vigilant hope—seeing each moment as a prelude to eternity. The stunning promise is that the returning Lord will Himself serve those He finds faithful, overturning every earthly order. Our waiting is not anxious but joyful; every duty and act of love becomes preparation for a divine encounter. Like expectant parents with a packed bag and a ready car, keep your heart awake and your faith active—the Master could call at any moment, and His joy will meet you at the door.
A Journey of Reflection and Action
- Journal Prompt: Reflect on what “keeping your lamp burning” means for your daily walk with Christ. What areas of your life need renewed readiness?
- Scripture Meditation: Meditate on Luke 12:35–40. Picture yourself waiting with joy, not fear, for Christ’s return.
- Faith in Action: Perform one deliberate act of love or service today as a sign of readiness for His coming.
- Group Reflection: Discuss with your faith group or family how to live with joyful vigilance rather than spiritual sleepiness.
Join Us in Prayer
Lord Jesus, awaken my heart to live with holy readiness. May my faith burn brightly through prayer, love, and obedience. Help me to serve joyfully and expectantly until You return in glory. Amen.
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Scripture Footnote & Further Reading
Scripture Source: Adapted from the Catholic Daily Reading for 21 October 2025.
Further Reading:
- First Reading: Romans 5:12, 15b, 17-19, 20b-21
- Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 40:7-8a, 8b-9, 10, 17
- Gospel: Luke 12:35-38
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