For the Son of Man is as a man taking a far journey, who left His house, and gave authority to His servants, and to every man his work, and commanded the porter to watch. Mark 13:34
Because my father worked in the construction field, he would be away from home for lengthy periods, except for brief weekend periods, during the construction season. There were occasions when he would take me out to barns or other buildings and point out some task that he wanted me to do during the week. I didn’t always get those tasks done, but I can remember some of those that were finished to his satisfaction. It meant so much to me to hear him express that. One time, I was just finishing the repairs to the pasture fence when he arrived on the scene to inspect the job. His brief ‘That’ll hold ’em’ as he tested the fence for sturdiness was all I needed to hear. As we think about the review that is coming for our service for our Lord, will it be important to hear His words, ‘Well done’?
The man in the parable gave his servants three things: authority, work to do, and a watch to keep. We have been given the same three things, as we occupy for our Lord. When He was here on earth, He displayed authority that impressed many. To us he has given authority, through His Word. Amid all of the mixed and confused messages of earth, the Word of God stands absolutely true and eternal. It is that same Word that we use for our power, knowing that even though many might criticize or scorn the Book, nobody can ever refute it.
Just as the servants were all given work to do in their master’s absence, so we have service to perform. We spend far too much of our time dealing with our own matters and too little attending to the Lord’s business. To receive His commendation, we need to reset our priorities, because our own little works will be burned up, but His will endure forever.
The porter was told to watch. For what? Undoubtedly, he was to guard His master’s property, making sure nobody stole or damaged. You and I are also guardians of God’s holy things, and we need to preserve that which He has given us. The porter was also to watch for his master’s return. This too is our occupation, keeping His promise of return ever before us, that we will be ready and anxious to see Him at His appearing.
We are given responsibility and privilege in our Master’s charge. May we appreciate both. -Jim MacIntosh