In the Gospel of Luke 12:35-38, Jesus told his disciples to be prepared. He urged them to gird their loins and keep their lamps burning, like men waiting for their master to return from the wedding feast, so that they may open to him immediately upon his arrival and calling.
The reflection revolves around the joy of recognizing that, although one may be sinful and small, they will have the opportunity to open the door to the Lord upon His return. The idea of heaven and hell should not distract us from our daily responsibilities, but rather serve as a healthy reminder of vigilance and readiness to receive the Lord.
The quote from St. Gregory of Nazianzus highlights the importance of being accountable not only for our actions and words but also for the good use of time. Being alert and keeping our eyes open is presented as an accessible challenge amidst daily distractions and temptations.
The metaphor of the farmer sowing in "angry" lands illustrates the need to prepare the ground for a good harvest. Similarly, a Christian needs to be aware of their origin, destination, and the means to get there, staying focused on the heavenly goal.
The exhortation to vigilance and responsibility is repeated in Jesus' preaching as a demonstration of love and care for His followers. Being distracted implies forgetting the ultimate purpose and acting without commitment or conviction.
The prayer concludes by asking Jesus for the grace to live attentively and vigilantly, cultivating constant love towards Him in daily life.
