Memorial of Saint Augustine, Bishop and Doctor of the Church
Matthew 24:42-51
“When He Comes”

Jesus warns His disciples to “stay awake” because no one knows the day or the hour of His return. This watchfulness is not about living in fear, but in eager expectation—like a servant who longs for his master’s arrival, knowing it will mean joy and reward.

The first danger Jesus points out is living without watchfulness. Just as a thief does not announce his coming, so the Son of Man will come unexpectedly. This is not meant to paralyze us, but to keep our hearts alert and our lives in order.

The second danger is the comfortable illusion that “there’s plenty of time.” Barclay’s fable of the three apprentice devils is piercing: the most successful temptation is to make people believe there is no hurry. Tomorrow, we think, will be the day we pray more deeply, forgive that hurt, and reconcile with God. But tomorrow is never guaranteed.

The third truth is simple: reward comes to the faithful servant; judgment comes to the one who neglects his duty. What matters is not grand achievements, but steady, humble fidelity. The anonymous African-American poet captures it well: whether hoeing cotton or preaching the Gospel, the faithful soul will be found ready when the King arrives.

On this feast of St. Augustine, we remember a man who delayed his conversion for years, famously praying, “Lord, make me chaste—but not yet.” But once grace seized him, he lived with the urgency of love, pouring himself into Christ’s service.

Today, Christ calls us to live each moment as though He might come before the day is over—not with panic, but with readiness and joy. When He comes, may He find us at our post, faithful to the work He has given us.

© Claretian Publications, Hong Kong, China
Cum Approbatione Ecclesiastica 2025