Jesus uses imagery to describe the indescribable "end" - it is not a sort of definite information that he is imparting, but to prepare us to be ready at all times. This state of being alert is the best way of discovering the kingdom which has already come among us.

To wait for the end, to calculate its final appearance can become an escapism from making a decision in the present or to postpone a decision for change.

When it comes to God the future is never to be seen as distant from the present. The future is already hidden in the present like a seed that is sown in the ground. "Embrace the present moment as an ever-flowing source of holiness." (Jean Pierre de Causade...Abandonment to Divine Providence).

Awaiting is trusting in God at all times. To begin to trust in God is to begin to get involved in God's plan of salvation. Looking at God's creation ever unfolding before us is an inspiration to be in an attitude of prayer, an attitude of "letting go", "letting God". Let's be prepared at all times so that like Samuel, in the middle of the night, we can learn to say: