How can we cultivate a heart of expectation as described in Luke 12:38? The Call to Watchfulness in Luke 12:38 “‘If he comes in the second or third watch and finds them alert, those servants will be blessed!’” (Luke 12:38) • Jesus pictures servants literally staying awake through the darkest hours, confident their master will appear. • Blessing is promised not merely for believing He may come, but for living as though His return is certain. Why Expectation Matters • Expectation keeps faith vibrant rather than theoretical (Hebrews 11:1). • It fuels holiness: “Everyone who has this hope in Him purifies himself, just as He is pure” (1 John 3:3). • It drives mission: “The night is nearly over; the day has drawn near” (Romans 13:12). Practical Ways to Cultivate Expectation • Set daily reminders of His promised return – Read or recite passages such as John 14:3; Acts 1:11; Revelation 22:20. • Keep lamps trimmed—stay filled with the Spirit (Ephesians 5:18) – Begin and end the day confessing sin, seeking fresh filling. • Order priorities for eternity – Budget time and money toward what outlasts this age: gospel work, mercy ministry, discipleship. • Practice watchful prayer – “Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful” (Colossians 4:2). – Set short, scheduled pauses to pray “Your kingdom come.” • Fellowship with like-minded believers – “Encourage one another, and all the more as you see the Day approaching” (Hebrews 10:25). • Celebrate the Lord’s Supper regularly – “For whenever you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until He comes” (1 Corinthians 11:26). • Live ready to give an account – Keep short accounts—apologize, forgive, reconcile quickly (Matthew 5:23-24). Guarding Against Complacency • Reject the lie of delay (2 Peter 3:3-4). • Beware dulling influences—excess entertainment, materialism, substance abuse (Luke 21:34). • Remember past fulfillments of prophecy as proof God keeps time perfectly (Isaiah 46:9-10). Promises for the Watchful • Blessedness—divine approval and joy (Luke 12:37-38). • Participation in the Master’s own joy and authority (Luke 12:42-44; Matthew 25:21). • Deliverance from sudden destruction (1 Thessalonians 5:4). Closing Encouragement Stay alert through the “second or third watch.” However long the night, the Master’s word is sure, His timing perfect, His reward generous. Cultivate expectation, and be among those He calls “blessed.” |
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