Dressed ready to serve 

In Luke 12:35-40, Jesus is teaching the crowds on how to live a life of readiness and faithfulness. He just finished comforting them about not worrying for their needs, telling them to trust in God's provision. Now, He shifts His focus, urging them to “be dressed ready for service and keep your lamps burning.” This call is for His followers to maintain a spirit of preparedness, like faithful servants who their master can confidently leave in charge, trusting they will remain diligent and faithful even in His absence. The image of a lit lamp signifies spiritual vigilance, an ongoing readiness for whatever may come, whether challenges in life or, ultimately, the return of Christ. Jesus calls His followers to a state of being that shines with light and readiness, fueled by a steadfast relationship with God.

This theme of preparedness resonates with the daily lives of people around the world. Every morning, millions of individuals wake up, each getting ready to face a day of work. Though their schedules may differ, their routines share common elements. People rise, get dressed, and prepare to put in their best efforts for the tasks ahead. Preparing for work requires not only physical readiness but also a certain mindset, an attitude geared toward completing one’s duties well. This preparation is a discipline, an intentional act of dressing oneself for the role one has been entrusted with.

Each occupation demands its own type of dress and equipment, suited to its unique tasks. An office worker might don a suit and tie, aiming to present themselves with professionalism and competence. A construction worker, however, will need sturdy jeans, steel-toed boots, and perhaps a hard hat, as their job requires physical endurance and protection. Each uniform has a purpose, equipping the worker for what lies ahead, helping them be prepared, capable, and safe in their respective roles.

But readiness goes beyond clothing. Alongside putting on the right attire, people must adopt a readiness of heart and mind. Each worker must come with a willingness to perform their tasks, remember their responsibilities, and do their best. Attitude matters greatly in the workplace, often impacting one’s effectiveness, relationships with colleagues, and the quality of the job itself. Those with a positive attitude and diligent work ethic tend to stand out, often rewarded with pay raises or promotions, as they bring value to their work and earn the trust of those around them.

Not everyone, however, approaches work with this attitude. Some may refuse to dress for the job properly, showing up unprepared or improperly equipped. Others may lack commitment, choosing to slack off or approach tasks carelessly. Such individuals fall short in reliability, failing to live up to the expectations of the role. Their lack of readiness reveals their disinterest or inability to serve effectively, and they miss out on the rewards that come from dedication and excellence.

In a similar way, believers are called to be "dressed" and ready to work for God. However, this readiness does not involve physical clothing but spiritual characteristics that reflect Jesus. Believers are to "wear" traits like compassion, love, truth, faithfulness, wholeheartedness, and humility—qualities that enable them to reflect Christ. These are the "garments" that truly matter, adorning the believer with a Christ-like nature, equipping them for the tasks God has for them.

Believers are to keep their "lamps burning." This means being filled with God’s Holy Spirit, ready and willing to serve God and others, empowered by divine strength. It’s a call to stay spiritually awake, engaged, and active in faith. Keeping one’s lamp burning involves a heart that is eager to share the gospel, a life that radiates hope and love, and a confidence rooted in knowing that God is faithful.

For Christians, these qualities must be put on daily, just as one dresses for work. Looking into the mirror of one’s own life, a believer should ask, “Do I look like Jesus? Am I dressed in His righteousness? Is my lamp bright, shining as a witness in this world?” Such self-reflection is crucial for staying aligned with God's purpose, ensuring that one is prepared for the daily work of faith, whatever that may entail.

This passage challenges every believer to maintain a readiness that reflects Jesus. It’s a call to be faithful, to stay “dressed” in the traits of Christ, and to keep one’s lamp lit with the Spirit’s fire, shining brightly as a light in a world that needs His hope and love. Are you ready, dressed in righteousness and brightly shining for all to see?