Jesus frequently describes his return in terms of an unexpected event, with an added warning that there is work for us to do in the interim. For this reason, Jesus also emphasizes an urgent need for vigilance and active participation on our part in that regard. The question is, why should we be concerned about his unexpected return, and what exactly does Jesus expect us to be doing until then?
As to our concern about his return, several times Jesus warns his disciples to “stay awake and keep watch, for you do not know on which day your Lord will come; be prepared, for at an hour you do not expect, the Son of Man will come” (Mt 24:42-44). The urgency in this instruction suggests that things will not go well for those found negligent and inattentive in keeping watch upon his return. But what does it mean to keep watch? What did it mean for the disciples of long ago, and what does it mean for us today?
The answer has to do with bringing about the kingdom of God. This is the work Jesus expects us to be doing upon his return, and the key in that regard is service to others. Our calling is to serve others. We bring about the kingdom of God by doing good works. The followers of Jesus are faithful servants who renew their commitment to serving others each day. Jesus makes it clear things will go well for those found carrying out this expectation when he returns.
Jesus speaks this way not only in reference to his second coming, but also to those times each day when he comes to us through our families, our neighbors, and our communities. Serving others is especially critical for those living in the second and third watch where the expectation of his return is least.
We know the kind of service Jesus has in mind—feed the hungry, clothe the naked, care for the sick, visit the isolated, promote peace and justice, show mercy. These instructions echo the words of Isaiah, who says we should learn to do good, seek justice, redress the wronged, hear the orphan’s plea, and defend the widow (Is 1:17).
According to St. James, doing good works is precisely what it means to be a religious person (Jm 1:27). This is how we show our love for God and neighbor. When and how often is also clear—as often and for as long as the need is there. Seven times seventy times is one way Jesus characterizes our role in that regard. The greater the need, the more necessary the service on our part.
Through his own life and mission on earth, Jesus provides many examples of what it means to be great by serving others, especially those close to us. We can do no better than to follow his example.
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