The Gospel reading stresses the importance of keeping alert and ready for whatever is to come our way. The example given is the alertness expected of a servant who waits on his/her master's return. According to the Jewish customs, the night is divided into 3 equal periods. (first watch: 6pm-10pm; 2nd watch 10pm-2am; 3rd watch 2am-6am). If a servant is found to be watchful, attentive and faithful, he or she will be rewarded.

This is what is expected of us as followers/disciples of Jesus - constant faithfulness to God is the essence of our vocation. Are we prepared to give an account of our stewardship?

In Paul's letter to the Romans, he talks about a contrast between Adam and Christ. Adam introduced sin and death into the world while Christ brought righteousness and life. Adam stands for man's sinfulness while Christ stands for justification of the believers. Salvation is available to all and to be effective this gift of God must be received (Rom. 5:17-18).

It is similar to that of a faithful servant's alertness to receive the master on his return.

Today we remember Pope St. John Paul II whose life of sacrifice reminds us of the call to holiness through self-sacrifice and to live a life of love and compassion.